Jameson's Firefinch
NameJameson's Firefinch
Common NameJameson's Firefinch
Scientific NameLagonosticta rhodopareia
FamilyEstrildidae
Wingspan (cm)12.5
Length (cm)10.5
Weight (g)9
Plumage DetailsMales are predominantly crimson-red on the head, underparts, and rump, with a brown back and wings. The tail is black, and the bill is dark grey to black. Females are duller, with more extensive brown on the head and underparts, and less intense red.
Vocalization / CallA soft, high-pitched 'tseep' or 'swee' call, often given in flight or while foraging. Their song is a quiet, trilling series of notes.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in scattered populations across southern and eastern Africa, from Angola and southern Democratic Republic of Congo east to Tanzania, and south through Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Botswana, and northern South Africa.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size, Predominantly crimson-red plumage (males), Brown back and wings, Dark bill, Ground-foraging behavior
Description
This small, reddish finch is typically found foraging on the ground in dry savanna and bushland habitats. Males display vibrant crimson-red plumage, contrasting with their brown back and wings. They are generally shy birds, often seen in pairs or small groups.
