Black-faced Firefinch
NameBlack-faced Firefinch
Common NameBlack-faced Firefinch
Scientific NameLagonosticta larvata
FamilyEstrildidae
Wingspan (cm)13
Length (cm)10.5
Weight (g)10
Plumage DetailsMales have a prominent black face and throat, deep crimson-red breast and flanks, and dark grey-brown upperparts and belly. The rump and tail are also crimson. Females are duller, with less extensive black on the face and a paler red wash on the underparts.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include soft, high-pitched 'tsip' or 'seep' calls, often given in flight or while foraging. The song is a series of soft, melodious whistles and trills.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in a disjunct range across sub-Saharan Africa, primarily in West Africa (from Senegal to Nigeria) and Central Africa (including Sudan, Ethiopia, Uganda, and parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo).
Identifying Featuresblack face and throat, crimson-red breast and flanks, dark grey-brown body, small size, pale bill with dark culmen
Description
A small, striking finch characterized by its distinctive black face and throat, contrasting with a deep crimson-red breast. It typically forages on the ground in grassy areas and thickets, often in pairs or small groups. Males are more brightly colored than females.
