Red-headed Quelea
NameRed-headed Quelea
Common NameRed-headed Quelea
Scientific NameQuelea erythrops
FamilyPloceidae
Wingspan (cm)19
Length (cm)12.5
Weight (g)14
Plumage DetailsAdult males have a distinctive bright red head and throat, a black conical bill, and buffy-white underparts with streaked brown upperparts. Females and non-breeding males are duller, lacking the red, with streaked brown plumage and a pale supercilium.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include various chirps, buzzes, and chattering notes, often given in chorus by large flocks.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, wetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal east to Ethiopia and south to Angola and Mozambique.
Identifying FeaturesBright red head (male), Small size, Conical black bill, Streaked brown upperparts, Often in large flocks
Description
This small, stocky weaver is characterized by the male's striking bright red head and throat. It is often found in large flocks in grasslands and wetlands, feeding primarily on seeds.
