Red-cheeked Cordonbleu
NameRed-cheeked Cordonbleu
Common NameRed-cheeked Cordonbleu
Scientific NameUraeginthus bengalus
FamilyEstrildidae
Wingspan (cm)13
Length (cm)12.8
Weight (g)11.4
Plumage DetailsMales have bright turquoise-blue underparts, rump, and tail, with brown upperparts and head. A prominent crimson patch on each cheek is characteristic. Females are duller, with less extensive blue and smaller or absent red cheek patches. Both sexes have a pinkish bill.
Vocalization / CallA soft, high-pitched 'seep' or 'tsip' call, and a trilling song.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, forest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal east to Ethiopia and south to Angola and Zambia.
Identifying Featuresbright blue plumage, brown upperparts, red cheek patch (males), pink bill, small size
Description
This small, vibrant finch is characterized by its striking blue plumage on the underparts and brown upperparts. Males feature distinctive crimson cheek patches. They are social birds, often seen foraging for seeds in open woodlands and savannas.
