Crimson Seedcracker
NameCrimson Seedcracker
Common NameCrimson Seedcracker
Scientific NamePyrenestes sanguineus
FamilyEstrildidae
Wingspan (cm)13
Length (cm)13
Weight (g)18
Plumage DetailsAdult males have a brilliant crimson-red head, breast, rump, and upper tail-coverts, contrasting sharply with a dark brown to blackish back, wings, and tail. The stout, conical bill is dark grey or black. Females are duller, with brownish upperparts and underparts, often with red restricted to the face and rump.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include soft, high-pitched 'tseep' or 'tsit' calls, often given in flight or while foraging. They also produce buzzing or trilling sounds.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, wetland, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in West Africa, ranging from Senegal and Gambia east through Guinea-Bissau, Guinea, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Togo, Benin, and Nigeria.
Identifying FeaturesCrimson-red plumage (males), Very large, conical, dark bill, Small, stocky body, Dark wings and tail contrasting with red body, Often found in dense grassy or reedy habitats
Description
This small, stocky finch is characterized by its striking crimson plumage and unusually large, conical bill. It typically inhabits dense grassy areas and wetlands, where it forages for hard seeds. Males are particularly vibrant, while females are duller.
