Red-billed Quelea
NameRed-billed Quelea
Common NameRed-billed Quelea
Scientific NameQuelea quelea
FamilyPloceidae
Wingspan (cm)11
Length (cm)12.5
Weight (g)20.5
Plumage DetailsBreeding males have a prominent black facial mask, a bright red bill, and pinkish-buff to creamy underparts. Their upperparts are streaked brown and black with an olive-green rump. Females and non-breeding males lack the black mask, having a yellowish or reddish bill and duller, more streaked plumage overall.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations consist of varied chirping, chattering, and buzzing sounds, often described as a constant 'tsip-tsip-tsip' or 'chick-chick' when in large flocks.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatssavanna, grassland, shrubland, cultivated areas
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, avoiding only dense forests and extreme deserts.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size, Bright red bill, Black facial mask (breeding males), Streaked brown upperparts, Highly gregarious behavior
Description
The Red-billed Quelea is a small, highly gregarious passerine bird known for forming massive flocks, sometimes numbering in the millions. Males in breeding plumage display a distinctive black facial mask and a bright red bill, while females and non-breeding males are duller.
