Quailfinch
NameQuailfinch
Common NameQuailfinch
Scientific NameOrtygospiza atricollis
FamilyEstrildidae
Wingspan (cm)11
Length (cm)9.5
Weight (g)10
Plumage DetailsMales have dark brown upperparts, a black face mask with prominent white lores and a white stripe below the eye, and a bright red bill. The breast and flanks are strikingly barred black and white, often with a rufous wash on the belly. Females are similar but generally duller, with less distinct facial markings and barring.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a soft, high-pitched 'tseep' or 'tsit' call, often given in flight. They also produce a quiet, trilling song.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal east to Ethiopia and south to South Africa.
Identifying Featuresred bill, black face mask with white markings, black and white barred underparts, small size, ground-dwelling behavior
Description
The Quailfinch is a small, ground-dwelling finch known for its quail-like foraging behavior. It is characterized by its distinctive red bill and striking black and white barred underparts. This species is widespread across sub-Saharan Africa.
