The Drakensberg siskin is a small passerine bird in the finch family. It is an endemic resident breeder in the eastern Cape Province Transkei and western Natal in South Africa, and in Lesotho.
Region
Drakensberg Mountains and Lesotho Highlands
Typical Environment
Occurs along the escarpment and high plateaus of the Drakensberg in South Africa and across much of Lesotho. It occupies montane grasslands, rocky slopes, cliff faces, and shrub-dotted valleys, often near streams. The species favors areas with plentiful seed-bearing forbs and grasses, interspersed with boulders and ledges for nesting. In winter it may descend to slightly lower elevations and adjacent foothills, especially where food is more available.
Altitude Range
1500–3200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This high-altitude finch is confined to the Drakensberg range and Lesotho highlands, where it often nests in rock crevices—unusual among siskins. Males are distinctly brighter yellow than females, which are duller and more streaked. It was formerly placed in the genus Serinus but moved to Crithagra based on genetic studies. Outside the breeding season it forms small flocks and may move downslope in winter.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with undulating passages
Social Behavior
Breeds in pairs that defend small territories centered on nesting crevices in rocks or cliff faces. Outside the breeding season, it gathers in small flocks that move through grassland and shrub zones. Courtship includes aerial chases and soft twittering exchanges; the female typically incubates while the male brings food.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A lively series of high, tinkling trills and twitters, often delivered from a low perch or during short display flights. Calls include thin seee and rapid chittering notes used to keep contact within small flocks.
Plumage
Male shows bright yellow underparts with olive-yellow upperparts lightly streaked; female is duller olive-brown with heavier streaking and paler yellow wash below. Both sexes have a short conical bill and may show faint pale wingbars and a yellowish rump. Plumage is sleek and close-feathered, aiding in swift, undulating flight.
Diet
Primarily consumes seeds of montane grasses and herbaceous plants, picking them from seed heads and from the ground. It supplements this with small insects and other invertebrates, especially during the breeding season to feed chicks. It may also take buds and tender shoots when seeds are scarce. Grit is often ingested to aid digestion.
Preferred Environment
Forages in open montane grasslands, rocky slopes, and along paths and stream margins with low vegetation. It often feeds on the ground or on low stems, moving in small, loose groups outside the breeding season.
