The brown firefinch is a common species of estrildid finch found in Southern Africa. It has an estimated global extent of occurrence of 1,300,000 km2.
Region
Southern Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs patchily in southern Africa, including parts of Angola, Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, and northern South Africa. Prefers dry to semi-arid savanna with rank grass, thorny thickets, and woodland edges. Frequently uses riverine scrub, fallow fields with cover, and bushy margins near water. Avoids wide open grassland without nearby shrubs, staying low and concealed while feeding.
Altitude Range
0–1800 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The brown firefinch is a small estrildid finch that keeps close to dense cover and is often overlooked despite being fairly common in southern Africa. It is usually seen in pairs or small family groups, foraging quietly on or near the ground. Males give a soft, tinkling song from low shrubs, especially at dawn and late afternoon.
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low to the ground
Social Behavior
Often in pairs or small groups, keeping in dense cover and emerging to feed along edges. Builds a globular grass nest low in shrubs or tall grass. Likely monogamous, with both parents attending the nest and young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft, tinkling series of high, thin notes delivered from a low perch or within cover. Calls include quiet chips and seeping notes used for contact within pairs.
