Red-billed Firefinch
NameRed-billed Firefinch
Common NameRed-billed Firefinch
Scientific NameLagonosticta senegala
FamilyEstrildidae
Wingspan (cm)13
Length (cm)10.25
Weight (g)9.5
Plumage DetailsMales display a brilliant crimson-red on the head, breast, and belly, with small white spots on the flanks. Their back and wings are brown, contrasting with a red rump and tail, and a conical bright red bill. Females are duller, predominantly brown with a reddish wash on the face and rump, also possessing a red bill.
Vocalization / CallTheir vocalizations include soft, high-pitched 'tseet-tseet' or 'chip-chip' calls, often given while in flight or foraging. The song is a gentle, warbling series of notes.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, urban, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThis species is widely distributed across sub-Saharan Africa, inhabiting a broad belt from Senegal in the west to Ethiopia in the east, extending south through Angola and into parts of South Africa.
Identifying Featuresbright red bill, crimson-red plumage (male), small white spots on flanks (male), small size
Description
The Red-billed Firefinch is a small, vibrant finch known for its striking red plumage in males and a distinctive red bill. These social birds are often seen foraging on the ground in pairs or small groups, primarily feeding on seeds.
