Mali Firefinch
NameMali Firefinch
Common NameMali Firefinch
Scientific NameLagonosticta virata
FamilyEstrildidae
Wingspan (cm)13.5
Length (cm)10.5
Weight (g)10
Plumage DetailsMales have a crimson-red face, breast, and flanks, with small white spots on the flanks. The crown, nape, and upperparts are grey-brown, while the rump and uppertail-coverts are red. Females are similar but duller, with less extensive red and fewer spots.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include soft, high-pitched 'tsip' or 'tsee' calls, often given in flight or while foraging. The song is a series of soft, warbling notes.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to West Africa, primarily found in southern Mali, with extensions into adjacent parts of Senegal, Guinea, and Burkina Faso.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size, Red face, breast, and flanks (more prominent in males), Grey-brown upperparts, Small white spots on flanks (males), Red rump
Description
The Mali Firefinch is a small, rather drab finch with a distinctive red face, breast, and flanks, contrasting with grey-brown upperparts. It typically forages on the ground in dry savanna and scrubland habitats, often in pairs or small groups.
