Purple Grenadier
NamePurple Grenadier
Common NamePurple Grenadier
Scientific NameUraeginthus ianthinogaster
FamilyEstrildidae
Wingspan (cm)13
Length (cm)13.5
Weight (g)12.5
Plumage DetailsMales have a reddish-brown crown, nape, and back, contrasting sharply with a brilliant iridescent purple-blue face, throat, and underparts. They possess a bright red bill and a prominent red eye-ring. Females are duller, mostly brown with a pale blue wash on the face and flanks.
Vocalization / CallTheir vocalizations include soft, high-pitched 'seep-seep' or 'tsit-tsit' calls, often given while foraging or in flight. They also have a quiet, trilling song.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in East Africa, primarily in Ethiopia, Somalia, Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. They inhabit dry savannas, thornbush, acacia woodlands, and open grasslands.
Identifying FeaturesReddish-brown head and back (male), Vibrant iridescent purple-blue face and underparts (male), Bright red bill, Red eye-ring, Small size
Description
The Purple Grenadier is a small, vibrant finch native to East Africa. Males are particularly striking with their reddish-brown and iridescent purple-blue plumage. They are typically found foraging on the ground for seeds in dry, open habitats.
