Chirping with Kloof Conservancy – African Firefinch
Learn more about this feathered Highway local by reading on.
THIS bird is an instant attraction because of its stand-out bright red chest and the sprinkling of fine white spots on their underside.
Description
This is a tiny bird that measures in at 11cm and weigh only 9 grams. It is part of the Waxbill family and is often seen with other small birds. It’s small size and distinctive red chest makes it easily identifiable as there is no similar bird in our area. It has a blue-black bill with a brown back and wing feathers. Males and females are very similar with the females will dull colours. The very similar Red-billed Firefinch is found north of Durban and in parts of the Midlands, but not in the Highway area.
Distribution
It is found in the eastern parts of South Africa from the Eastern Cape through to Limpopo and somewhat westward to parts of the North West Province. It is also found on the eastern parts of Sub-Saharan Africa. They are very seldom seen alone and are most often spotted in small groups.
ALSO READ: Chirping with Kloof Conservancy – The Cape Batis
Habitat
The African Firefinch can be found on the edges of wooded areas, in grasslands and often along streams and rivers. It is a common visitor to well sunlit gardens.
Feeding
This species mainly feeds on grass seeds but will also occasionally eat insects. It is easily attracted to feeding tables with seeds (see below on feeding tables). Feeding is done mostly on the ground.
Breeding
These birds are monogamous and pair for life and, as with most finches, their life span is about seven years. They have quite a complicated courtship display that often involves a lot of tail twisting. The male builds a ball-shaped nest on his own and the female helps with the finishing touches. Up to five eggs are laid and they take 12 days to hatch. Incubation is done by both adults during daytime and by the female at night.
Predators and threats
Generally, it is not under threat from other bird species but sadly they are often trapped (with high mortality rates) for the caged-bird trade as they are an attractive, small species.
Local information
The African Firefinch is found across the entire Highway area, so look for it near grasslands or any garden with plenty of grass seeds.
ALSO READ: Chirping with Kloof Conservancy – Black-headed Oriole
Interesting facts
The genus name, Lagonosticta, derives from the Greek words lagon, meaning flank, and stiktos, meaning spotted.
As mentioned, this species is easily attracted to bird feeding tables, but we do wish to raise awareness of the negative effects of feeding tables. As a general principle, the Kloof Conservancy recommends that planting of wide range of indigenous flora will usually attract birds without the need of feeding tables. Feeding tables create unnatural conditions that may result in behaviour change and the transmission of diseases. The use of incorrect feeding material, such as products with artificial sugar, colouring or even honey, can affect bird’s health.
If you have a feeding table, follow these basic hygiene rules:
– Disinfect the feeders and birdbaths daily using a veterinary quality disinfectant and remove any algae.
– Regularly remove any food waste particularly when it is damp and contains fungus.
A more detailed set of guidelines can be provided on request. Contact the Kloof Conservancy via its social media pages or via its website at www.kloofconservancy.org.za.
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