Village Indigobird
NameVillage Indigobird
Common NameVillage Indigobird
Scientific NameVidua chalybeata
FamilyViduidae
Wingspan (cm)15
Length (cm)11.5
Weight (g)13
Plumage DetailsBreeding males are entirely glossy purplish-blue to blue-black, appearing almost black in some light. Non-breeding males and females are duller, streaky brown, resembling their host species.
Vocalization / CallMales have a complex song that incorporates mimicry of their host species, such as the Red-billed Firefinch. They also produce various chirps and whistles.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, south of the Sahara Desert.
Identifying FeaturesGlossy blue-black plumage (breeding male), Bright orange-red conical bill, Bright orange-red legs and feet, Small size, Mimicry in song (males)
Description
A small, glossy blue-black finch-like bird with a distinctive bright orange-red bill and legs. Males are known for their brood parasitic behavior, laying eggs in the nests of other finch species, typically the Red-billed Firefinch.
