The brown twinspot is a common species of estrildid finch found in sub-Saharan Africa. It is the only member of the genus Clytospiza.
Region
West and Central Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs patchily from West African savannas through Central African woodland and forest edges. Prefers tall, rank grass, thickets, overgrown farmland, and gallery forest margins, usually near water or moist soils. Uses secondary growth, clearings, and tracks where grasses seed after rains or burns. Typically stays close to the ground or in low vegetation, emerging briefly to feed.
Altitude Range
0–1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The Brown Twinspot is the sole member of the genus Clytospiza, a distinctive estrildid finch of sub‑Saharan Africa. It favors dense grass and shrub edges, often staying low and skulking in cover. The name “twinspot” refers to the neat paired white spots along the flanks. Outside the breeding season it gathers in small, loose flocks that move locally following seeding grasses.
Temperament
secretive but social
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family parties; larger loose groups may form where grasses are seeding. Nests are spherical grass structures placed low in dense cover. Both parents participate in incubation and feeding of the young. Courtship includes soft song and close-contact displays in cover.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft, tinkling series of thin whistles and trills, often delivered from inside cover. Calls include quiet chips and twitters used to maintain contact in dense vegetation.
Plumage
Warm brown to chocolate-brown above with paler buff underparts; bold white round spots on the flanks; tail darker brown. Overall smooth, even-toned plumage with subtle contrast between back, wings, and underparts.
Diet
Feeds mainly on small grass and sedge seeds, taking them directly from seed heads or from the ground. Supplements diet with small insects such as termites, ants, and other arthropods, especially during the breeding season. Will exploit recently burned or rain-flushed areas where fresh seeds are abundant.
Preferred Environment
Forages low in tall grass, along paths, clearings, and the edges of woodland and gallery forest. Often near damp areas or cultivated plots with seeding weeds and grasses.
