Zebra Finch
Taeniopygia guttata

Zebra Finches are common across much of the drier parts of Australia, occurring near water and feeding on grass seeds. They are small members of the estreldid family (10-12 cm), along with birds such as the Beautiful Firetail. Their gregarious nature has made them popular house pets and also of great interest to scientists interested in animal behaviour. The bird in these photos is a male - the females lack the chestnut flanks and breast barring. Juveniles are similar to females, but with black beaks.
 

1-2: Rhodes, NSW, 01/10/2011.