The black-headed canary is a species of finch found in Lesotho, Namibia and South Africa. It is sometimes placed in the genus Alario as Alario alario
Region
Southern Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs in Namibia, South Africa, and Lesotho, favoring open, dry habitats. It frequents the Succulent and Nama Karoo, fynbos edges, stony plains, and lightly grazed farmlands with scattered shrubs. The species also uses fallow fields and roadside verges where seed is abundant. It is generally sedentary but makes local nomadic movements following rainfall and seed availability.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2500 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The black-headed canary is a small finch of arid and semi-arid southwestern Africa, where it is a year-round resident. Males have a striking black hood that contrasts with white underparts, while females are brown and streaked. It has been variously classified, sometimes placed in the genus Alario as Alario alario. Flocks often roam locally in response to seeding grasses and shrubs.
Male Damara canary
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often seen in pairs during the breeding season and in small to medium flocks at other times. Pairs are presumed monogamous, nesting low in shrubs or small bushes and lining cup nests with fine plant material. Outside breeding, they may join mixed finch flocks to exploit localized food resources.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
The male delivers a bright, canary-like series of trills, twitters, and buzzes from a perch or brief display flights. Calls include sharp chips and soft contact notes used to keep flocks together.
