Red-billed Pytilia
NameRed-billed Pytilia
Common NameRed-billed Pytilia
Scientific NamePytilia phoenicoptera
FamilyEstrildidae
Wingspan (cm)13
Length (cm)11.5
Weight (g)10.5
Plumage DetailsThe head and upperparts are primarily grey, often with a slightly scaly appearance on the crown. The throat and breast are also grey, transitioning to a reddish-brown on the belly, with prominent bright red patches on the sides of the body. The rump and tail are reddish, and the eyes are dark red.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include soft, high-pitched whistles and trills, often described as a 'tseep' or 'tsit' call. Its song is a series of soft, melodious notes.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across a band of sub-Saharan Africa, extending from Senegal and Gambia in the west, east through Sudan, Ethiopia, and Eritrea, and south into parts of Uganda and Kenya.
Identifying FeaturesBright red bill, Grey head and upperparts, Prominent red patches on flanks, Dark red eyes, Small, stocky finch body
Description
This small, stocky finch is characterized by its striking red bill and red patches on its flanks. It typically inhabits dry savannas and scrubland, where it forages for a diet of seeds and insects.
