Black-faced Firefinch

The Black-faced Firefinch, known scientifically as Lagonosticta larvata, is a vibrant member of the Estrildidae family. This small bird is a common sight across various regions of Africa.

Identification Tips

As its name suggests, this species can be identified by its distinctive black face. The plumage is generally a rich, ruddy color, which may vary slightly across its range.

Habitat

The Black-faced Firefinch is adaptable and can be found in a variety of habitats, including open woodlands and cultivated areas.

Distribution

This bird has a broad distribution across Africa, with sightings reported in countries such as Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, The Democratic Republic of the Congo, Côte d'Ivoire, Ethiopia, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea-Bissau, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Sudan, Togo, and Uganda.

Behaviour

The Black-faced Firefinch is known for its sociable nature, often seen in pairs or small groups.

Conservation status

The IUCN has classified the Black-faced Firefinch as Least Concern, indicating that, at present, there are no immediate threats to its population numbers.

Similar Species

Previously, Lagonosticta vinacea was considered a separate species. However, research by Dowsett and Forbes-Watson in 1993 led to the reclassification of L. vinacea as a population under L. larvata.