The blue-capped cordon-bleu or blue-capped cordonbleu is native to Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, and Tanzania in East Africa. This small finch does fairly well in captivity given adequate conditions; however, breeding this finch is said to be quite difficult.
Region
East Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs from eastern Ethiopia and South Sudan through Somalia and Kenya to northeastern Tanzania. Prefers dry savanna, thornbush, and open acacia woodland, and it readily uses farmlands, villages, and gardens. Often found near water sources and in areas with scattered shrubs or low trees for cover and nesting. Tolerant of lightly disturbed habitats and can be common around human settlements.
Altitude Range
0–2000 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 3/5
This small estrildid finch is native to dry savannas and scrub of East Africa and adapts well to human-modified landscapes. Males perform a charming courtship display, holding a grass stem while bobbing and singing. It can be maintained in captivity under good conditions, but consistent breeding is often challenging. The male’s brighter blue cap and underparts help distinguish it from the duller female and from the red-cheeked cordon-bleu.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often in pairs or small groups, forming loose flocks outside the breeding season. Pairs are monogamous and nest in domed grass nests placed in shrubs or low trees. Males display by holding a grass stem while bowing and singing. They may nest near human habitation where suitable cover is available.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft, high-pitched series of trills and twitters, delivered in short phrases. Males sing more frequently during courtship, often synchronized with bobbing and display flights.
Plumage
Fine, smooth plumage with bright blue on the head and underparts in males, contrasting with warm brown upperparts; females are browner with paler blue tones.
Diet
Primarily small grass and weed seeds gleaned from the ground and low vegetation. Supplements diet with termites and other small insects, especially during breeding to provide protein for chicks. Will visit feeding areas around villages and take millet or similar small seeds.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in open grassy patches, along paths and field edges, and beneath shrubs for cover. Often forages in small groups, moving between seed-rich spots and shaded perches.
