African Firefinch

The African firefinch, or blue-billed firefinch, is a diminutive and vibrant estrildid finch. Males boast a lead grey crown, nape, and neck that blend into an olive brown back. Their rump and uppertail coverts are a striking carmine red, while the underparts are a deep scarlet adorned with white spots on the upper breast and flanks. Females are similarly patterned but with less intense hues. Juveniles, however, lack the red underparts seen in adults. This species measures between 10–11 cm in length and weighs 8.6–11.7 g.

Identification Tips

To identify the African firefinch, look for the male's blackish-grey bill with a pink base on the lower mandible, and the female's less vivid coloration. The red rump and tail feathers are distinctive, as are the white spots on the flanks and upper breast.

Habitat

The African firefinch favors humid, densely vegetated areas such as forest edges with bracken, acacia woodlands, grassy scrublands, and riverine thickets. It can also be found in gardens and rural villages, though less frequently than other firefinch species.

Distribution

This species is patchily distributed across sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal to Ethiopia and southward to South Africa's Eastern Cape province.

Behaviour

The African firefinch is typically seen in pairs or small family groups, foraging on the ground for seeds and insects. It is a shy bird that retreats swiftly into cover when alarmed.

Song & Calls

Both sexes sing a song composed of ringing notes, squeaky whistles, trills, and warbles. The alarm call resembles the Eurasian wren's harsh ticking. Common calls include a rising trill and a loud, clear "tui-tui-tui-tui" followed by "wink-wink-wink."

Breeding

Males construct a round nest with a side entrance, using long grass blades and soft grass inflorescences, sometimes lined with feathers. Nesting occurs in concealed locations within dense vegetation. The breeding season varies geographically, with a peak from January to April in southern Africa. Both parents incubate the eggs and feed the chicks until they fledge and gain independence after about 10 days.

Similar Species

The African firefinch can be confused with other firefinches, but its distinctive coloration and call notes aid in differentiation.

Diet and Feeding

Primarily seed-eaters, African firefinches supplement their diet with insects. They are ground foragers, often seen sifting through soil in search of food.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List classifies the African firefinch as Least Concern, indicating a stable population across its wide range.