The Indian Silverbill (Lonchura malabarica), commonly known as the Warbling Finch, are gregarious and found in flocks of as many as 60 birds. They feed on the ground or on low shrubs and grass stalks.They constantly utter a low cheeping or chirping contact call as they forage. Native distribution seems to have been from the Arabian Peninsula through Iran, to India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Sikkim. Adult Indian silverbills have a conical silver-grey bill, buff-brown upperparts, white underparts, buffy flanks and dark wings. The tail is black and the wings are dark contrasting with a white rump. The tails of the Indian Silverbills for sale appear pointed as the length of the feathers reduce from the centre outwards.
Geography: India
Song/Call: Click to listen to the Indian Silverbill Finch
Size: 4.5″
Lifespan: Up to 8 years
Sexing: Monomorphic (visually difficult to sex).
DNA Testing
If there is no gender option listed for a bird on our website, that particular species is ‘monomorphic’, which means we’re unable to determine gender without purchasing DNA testing. DNA testing is an additional $149 per bird to guarantee preferred gender. DNA testing may add an additional 3-6 plus weeks to estimated delivery time to allow for gender results. See our FAQs for more info.
Temperament: The Indian Silverbill Finch is peaceful, highly social and active.
Breeding: The Indian Silverbill Finch is easy to breed. They prefer half open nest boxes with a lot of privacy.
Diet: Classic Finch Seed, Australian Blend Goldenfeast, Mineral Grit, Millet Sprays, Cuttlefish Bone, Dried Egg Food, Cuttlefish Bones, and Greens