RED CHEEKED CORDON BLEU FINCH
Identification: The Red-cheeked Cordon-bleu Finches (Uraeginthus bengalus) – also known as Red-cheeked Blue Waxbills.
Geography: Africa
Song / Call: Hear the Red Cheek Cordon Bleu
Lifespan: 5-10 years
Sexing: Red Cheeked Cordon Bleu finches are easily visually sexed as the females have a duller plumage, less extensive blue feathering and lack the red cheek patches.
Breeding: During the breeding season, males can get quite aggressive towards other males. These finches are not tolerant to nest inspections or disturbances in general when nesting, and often abandon any eggs or chicks. This should also be taken into consideration with respect to placement of the aviary.
Diet: Red-cheeked Cordon-bleus mostly feed on grass seeds as well as Millets and Egg Food. A Finch mix will be fine. When raising young in particular, they also take insects (meal worms) – as the chicks require a diet rich in protein to support their rapid growth.
