The Silver Diamond Firetail Barely Even Looks Real

Meet the silver diamond firetail, a rare variety of native Australian finch that looks like a Christmas angel with flames spilling from beneath its robes. Only the most experienced breeders can reliably produce this variety of the diamond firetail (Stagonopleura guttata), selecting parents that carry the recessive genes that give rise to this almost pearlescent plumage.

Pairing Diamond Firetail finches poses several challenges. First of all, males and females look very much alike. Even though there are some slight differences - those may not be noticeable, especially in young birds. Males are most easily identified by their courtship displays and their songs. Some breeders suggest observing these finches for a while and choosing a pair with voices that are the most different.