Red-billed Firefinch
Lagonosticta senegala
Red-billed Firefinch eats seeds and insects near African fields and villages.
| Scientific name | Lagonosticta senegala |
|---|---|
| Swahili name | Mchwa mwekundu |
| Conservation status | Least Concern |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Estrildidae |
| Size | Male: approximately 10-11 grams; Female: approximately 9-10 grams |
How to identify
Small-sized bird, body length about 10 cm; male has bright red head and bill; female is duller with a paler bill; body mainly brown with red spots; short tail, rounded wings
Habitat
Open grasslands, bushes, edges of farmland and shrubs near villages
Diet
Primarily feeds on small seeds, also consumes insects and other small invertebrates
When it is active
Diurnal, active during the day
Where it lives
Widely distributed across sub-Saharan Africa, including Kenya and the Masai Mara region
How to spot it
Look for them at dawn or dusk near bush edges or grasslands, noting their bright red bill and head
Photography tips
Use a telephoto lens to capture details, utilize natural light to highlight the red bill, choose backgrounds of open grasslands or bushes
Threats
Habitat destruction and pesticide use may affect food sources
Similar species
Red Firefinch (Lagonosticta rubricata), distinguished by a brighter red bill and lighter body coloration
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