Lesser Seedcracker

The lesser seedcracker, also known as the Nyasa seedcracker, is a small bird of the estrildid finch family, measuring approximately 14 cm in length. The male is adorned with a brown plumage tinged with olive, with striking bright red on the forehead, crown, side of face, chin, throat, and upper breast, and a deep blood red on the rump and central tail feathers. The underparts are a lighter shade than the upper parts. Females are similar but exhibit a less extensive red area on the face and crown. Both sexes possess a short, broad black beak, a brown eye encircled by a white ring, and greyish-brown to dark grey legs. Juveniles resemble adults but with more subdued coloration.

Identification Tips

To identify the lesser seedcracker, look for its distinctive red facial markings and the contrast between the bright red and brown-olive plumage. The black-bellied seedcracker may appear similar, but it does not share the same range as the lesser seedcracker.

Habitat

The lesser seedcracker inhabits upland forests at altitudes ranging from 725 to 1,800 meters. It can be found in high rainfall areas, forest margins in drier regions, Brachystegia woodlands, clearings, scrubby areas, and rank vegetation, often in proximity to watercourses.

Distribution

This species is a resident of eastern Africa, with its presence recorded in southern Tanzania, eastern Zimbabwe, southern Malawi, and northern Mozambique.

Behaviour

The lesser seedcracker is primarily a resident bird, though it exhibits partial migratory behavior in eastern Zimbabwe. It typically forages in pairs, staying low in the undergrowth or occasionally on the ground.

Diet and Feeding

Its diet consists of grass seeds, rice, and notably, the large hard seeds of the bamboo Olyra latifolia.

Breeding

Breeding season for the lesser seedcracker occurs from December to March in Malawi and Zimbabwe, and from March to May in Mozambique.

Conservation status

With a vast range and no significant threats impacting its population, the lesser seedcracker is classified as "Least Concern" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.