Green-backed Twinspot
NameGreen-backed Twinspot
Common NameGreen-backed Twinspot
Scientific NameMandingoa nitidula
FamilyEstrildidae
Wingspan (cm)16
Length (cm)10.5
Weight (g)10
Plumage DetailsThe Green-backed Twinspot has olive-green upperparts, with a striking bright red covering its forehead, lores, cheeks, and chin. Its breast and flanks are black with prominent white spots, which transition to a yellow-orange rump. It possesses a stout black bill and dark eyes.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a soft 'tseep' or 'tsit' call, often heard while the bird is foraging. Its song is a quiet, high-pitched trill or a series of delicate, tinkling notes.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThe Green-backed Twinspot is found in fragmented populations across sub-Saharan Africa, ranging from West Africa (e.g., Sierra Leone) through Central and East Africa (e.g., Kenya, Tanzania) and extending south to South Africa.
Identifying FeaturesOlive-green back, Bright red face, Black belly with white spots, Small size, Black bill
Description
This small, colorful finch is characterized by its olive-green back, bright red face, and a distinctive black belly adorned with prominent white spots. It typically forages on the ground in dense undergrowth, feeding primarily on seeds and small insects.
