Red Headed Finch

Scientific Name:
Amadina erythrocephala
Region:
Sub-Saharan Africa
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About the Red Headed Finch

The Red-headed Finch (Amadina erythrocephala) is a small passerine bird native to southern Africa.

Habitat

Red-headed Finches are commonly found in open habitats such as savannas, grasslands, shrublands, and agricultural areas. They prefer areas with scattered trees or bushes for perching and nesting, but they can also inhabit more arid regions such as semi-desert areas and scrublands. These finches are often seen in both natural and human-altered landscapes, including farms, villages, and suburban areas.

Length

Red-headed Finches are small birds, measuring approximately 11 to 13 centimeters (4.3 to 5.1 inches) in length. They have a relatively stocky build, a short tail, and a conical bill adapted for eating seeds. Their plumage is predominantly brown or grayish-brown on the upperparts, with a bright red head, throat, and upper breast. They have white or pale underparts, with black streaking on the flanks and a black mask across the eyes.

Best Viewing

The best places to view Red-headed Finches are in open habitats with suitable food sources, such as grasslands, savannas, and agricultural fields. Look for them feeding on the ground or perched on low vegetation, where they search for seeds, grains, and other food items. These finches are often seen in small to medium-sized flocks, especially during the non-breeding season when they gather in larger numbers.