The LITTLE GOLDBREAST (_Pytelia subflava_) will furnish us with the
best type of the STRIPED FINCHES, whose distinguishing characteristics
are the long and pointed beak, slightly vaulted at its roof, its origin
being nearly at right angles with the forehead; the length of the second
quill of the wings, and the short and rounded tail. The plumage of the
upper part of the body is of an olive-green or greyish tint, somewhat
lighter beneath, and delicately striped upon the sides of the body. In
size the Goldbreast does not exceed from three and a half, to three and
three-quarter inches, the span of the wings five and a half inches, the
length of the wing two and a half, and of the tail one and one-sixth
inches. The plumage is more varied in colour than in others of its
family; the entire upper portion of the body is olive green, and the
hinder part brownish red; a red line passes over the eyes, the throat
is white, the upper part of the breast and under tail-covers orange,
the sides of the belly greyish olive, marked with white crescent-shaped
spots, and its middle lemon yellow; the tail is black, and the feathers
edged with white at their extremities; the back and legs are red.
We are entirely ignorant as to the habits of these birds when in their
native lands, and can only inform our readers that when caged they are
very attractive little creatures, manifesting great attachment to each
other, and associating readily with other Finches. Their voice is gentle,
and not unpleasing in its sound.