The brimstone canary or bully canary is a small passerine bird in the finch family. It is a resident breeder in central and southern Africa.
Region
Central and Southern Africa
Typical Environment
This species inhabits open woodlands, savannas, fynbos, and scrubby hillsides, as well as forest edges and riverine thickets. It is common in farmlands, orchards, and suburban gardens where seed sources are abundant. The bird favors areas with scattered bushes and small trees for cover and nesting. It can also be found along roadsides and fallow fields, especially where weeds and grasses set seed.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 3000 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 3/5
Also known as the bully canary, the brimstone canary is a robust finch with a notably heavy bill adapted for cracking tough seeds. It readily adapts to human-altered landscapes and is a familiar garden bird in parts of southern Africa. Males often sing from exposed perches, delivering rich, canary-like trills.
C. s. sharpii
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Outside the breeding season it forms small flocks that forage together and may join mixed-species seed-eating groups. During breeding it is primarily monogamous, with pairs defending a small territory. Nests are neat cup structures placed in shrubs or small trees, and both parents attend the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
The song is a rich, rolling series of trills, twitters, and clear whistles reminiscent of domestic canaries. Males sing from exposed perches, often repeatedly, especially at dawn and late afternoon.
Plumage
Robust canary with olive-green to brownish upperparts faintly streaked and bright yellow underparts. The face is yellow with a paler eyebrow, and the rump is often conspicuously yellow. Feathers are smooth with limited contrast except for the brighter facial and ventral areas.
Diet
Primarily feeds on seeds of grasses, weeds, and various herbs, which it opens with its strong conical bill. It also takes buds, flowers, and small fruits when available. During the breeding season it supplements the diet with small insects and other invertebrates for added protein.
Preferred Environment
Often forages on the ground or low in shrubs, along field margins, garden lawns, and roadside verges. It is frequently seen feeding in weedy patches and agricultural areas where spilled grain or seedheads are accessible.
