The dusky twinspot is a species of estrildid finch found in Sub-Saharan Africa. It has an estimated global extent of occurrence of 130,000 km2.
Region
Gulf of Guinea and Central African rainforests
Typical Environment
Occurs from southeastern Nigeria across southwestern Cameroon into Gabon and adjacent Republic of the Congo. Favors lowland and foothill forest edges, overgrown clearings, secondary woodland, and rank grass thickets along streams. It keeps to dense cover, often near paths, forest gaps, and old plantations where seeding grasses are abundant. The species tolerates mosaic habitats but declines with heavy, continuous forest clearance.
Altitude Range
0–1600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
A shy estrildid finch of Central African forests, the dusky twinspot keeps close to dense undergrowth and is rarely seen in the open. Its name refers to the neat white spots on its flanks that show when it flicks through tangles of grass. Pairs or small family groups whisper soft contact notes as they feed. Habitat loss is a concern locally, but the species persists in secondary growth and forest edges.
Near Bwindi, SW Uganda
Temperament
shy and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low and direct through cover
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family parties, keeping close contact with soft calls. Nests are placed low in dense grass or shrubs, woven from fine stems and lined with softer materials. Courtship includes quiet duetting and subtle displays among the undergrowth.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft, thin series of high notes interspersed with gentle trills, often delivered from inside cover. Contact calls are faint, sibilant tsee or seep notes that can be hard to locate.
