Drakensberg Siskin

The Drakensberg siskin, a small finch of the family Fringillidae, is a bird that calls the eastern Cape Province Transkei, western Natal in South Africa, and Lesotho its home. This avian species is a resident breeder, favoring the alti-montane grasslands of the Drakensberg range. It is a bird of modest size, measuring between 13 to 14 centimeters in length.

Identification Tips

In both sexes, the Drakensberg siskin can be identified by the white sides of its tail, a characteristic most conspicuous during flight. The adult male boasts a light brown back with faint streaks, light brown wing coverts, rump, and upper tail, complemented by yellow underparts. The head and nape are tinged with yellowish grey and olive, while the throat shines a bright yellow, fading to a duller hue on the belly. The female, though similar in upperpart coloration, lacks the male's yellow and presents a buff head and underparts with fine dark brown streaks. Juveniles resemble females but with more pronounced streaking.

Habitat

This siskin is a denizen of the scrubby valleys and hillsides within the Drakensberg mountains, where it lives a rather reclusive life.

Behaviour

The Drakensberg siskin is a locally common yet elusive bird, often seen in pairs or small flocks. It moves stealthily through bushes and scrub, foraging for sustenance.

Song & Calls

The call of this siskin is a distinctive "schwee," typically uttered in flight. Its song is a gentle warble, reminiscent of the yellow-fronted canary, though somewhat subdued.

Breeding

Unique among siskins, the Drakensberg siskin breeds in cavities. The female constructs a shallow cup nest in rock crevices, on ledges, or amidst vegetation, particularly favoring ferns. Tree hollows are seldom used. The nest is woven with fine plant material and lined with plant down and animal hair. Clutches usually consist of three to four eggs, sometimes five, which the female incubates. During this period, the male provides for her by regurgitating food.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Drakensberg siskin includes seeds, such as those from proteas, as well as buds and insects.

Conservation status

The Drakensberg siskin is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating a stable population without immediate threats to its survival.

Similar Species

The Cape siskin is a close relative but is slightly smaller and can be distinguished by white spots on its flight feathers and tail, as well as more uniform upperparts. There is no geographical overlap between the two species.