Exploring Pigeon Valley: African Firefinches

This is the 95th article in an ongoing series that highlights the riches of Pigeon Valley, the urban nature reserve in the heart of Glenwood. The focus of this article is on African Firefinches. 

I now frequently encounter Red-billed Firefinches, which have even established themselves in my garden, but until they arrived five years ago the only Firefinches were the African (previously known as Blue-billed). This is a much shyer bird than the Red-billed, but in this photo, they were at an alate (flying ant) emergence with a Red-capped Robin-Chat.

Often, I made aware of their presence by the silvery calls and soft trill. Generally, the seed-eaters in Pigeon Valley are doing well; of course, many eat more than seeds, as in this event. However, I think the numbers of the African Firefinches are perhaps being limited by competition with their relatives.

ALSO READ: Exploring Pigeon Valley: Littering

With their rich, dark red and snow-like spots they are suitable for a bird-lover’s Christmas cards. Possibly they are not aware of that, but here is one cheerful image to make the season more festive!

Crispin Hemson chairs the Friends of Pigeon Valley, a group that undertakes clearing of alien plants, keeps records of bird and mammal sightings and alerts management to any problems.

The Friends have a monthly walk at 7.30am on the second Saturday of each month. Email: friendsofpigeonvalley1@gmail.com.

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