Red-billed Quelea
Image: Tasmiya Seedat (cc-by-nc)
NameRed-billed Quelea
Common NameRed-billed Quelea
Scientific NameQuelea quelea
FamilyPloceidae
Wingspan (cm)12
Length (cm)12.5
Weight (g)20.5
Plumage DetailsNon-breeding males and females have dull, streaky brown-grey upperparts and whitish underparts, with a prominent bright red bill. Breeding males develop a black facial mask and a pinkish-red wash on the head and breast, contrasting with the red bill.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a variety of noisy, chattering calls, often described as 'tseep' or 'chick-chick' notes, especially when in large flocks.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, savanna, agricultural land, open woodland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, south of the Sahara Desert.
Identifying Featuressmall finch-like bird, bright red conical bill, highly gregarious, forming large flocks, breeding males with black facial mask and pinkish-red head/breast
Description
The Red-billed Quelea is a small, highly gregarious weaver bird native to sub-Saharan Africa. It is characterized by its distinctive bright red, conical bill and often forms massive flocks, especially during the breeding season.
