Shelley's Oliveback
NameShelley's Oliveback
Common NameShelley's Oliveback
Scientific NameNesocharis shelleyi
FamilyEstrildidae
Wingspan (cm)16.5
Length (cm)10.5
Weight (g)9
Plumage DetailsMales have a glossy black head, a prominent white patch on the nape, bright golden-yellow breast and belly, and grey back, rump, and flanks. The bill is white with a dark culmen. Females are similar but with duller yellow underparts.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include soft, high-pitched 'tsip' or 'seep' calls. The song is a series of high-pitched notes and trills.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in scattered populations across central Africa, including Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea (Bioko Island), Gabon, Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and western Kenya.
Identifying FeaturesBlack head with white nape patch, Bright yellow breast, Grey back and flanks, Small size, White bill
Description
This small, striking finch is characterized by its glossy black head, bright yellow breast, and grey back. It typically forages in the canopy of montane forests, often in pairs or small groups, feeding on insects and seeds.
