The grey-headed silverbill, also known as pearl-headed mannikin, is a species of estrildid finch found in eastern Africa, Ethiopia, Kenya, South Sudan, and Tanzania. It has an estimated global extent of occurrence of 400,000 km2 (150,000 sq mi). It was formerly usually placed in the monotypic genus Odontospiza as Odontospiza caniceps and sometimes placed in the genus Lonchura.
Region
East Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs patchily across arid and semi-arid zones of Ethiopia, South Sudan, Kenya, and Tanzania, with local concentrations where seeding grasses are abundant. It favors thorn scrub, acacia savanna, dry grasslands, and bushy edges near watercourses. The species avoids dense forest and high montane habitats, preferring open, sparsely wooded country. It often frequents village edges and lightly grazed rangelands.
Altitude Range
0–1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 3/5
Also called the pearl-headed mannikin, this small estrildid finch is native to the dry savannas of eastern Africa. It typically forms loose flocks and is often seen perched on acacia shrubs or foraging on seeding grasses. The species was formerly placed in the monotypic genus Odontospiza as Odontospiza caniceps and has also been treated within Lonchura. Its sturdy, silvery bill is adapted to crack tough grass seeds.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief undulations
Social Behavior
Usually found in small flocks or family parties outside the breeding season, sometimes associating with other seed-eating finches. Nests are neat, spherical grass structures built in thorny shrubs or small trees. Pairs are monogamous during the breeding cycle and both adults tend the nestlings. Roosting can be communal in dense shrubs.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft series of thin, high-pitched twitters and piping notes, often delivered from a low perch. Contact calls are sharp and metallic, used to keep flock cohesion while foraging.
