Kipengere seedeater

The Kipengere seedeater, also known as the Tanzania seedeater, is a species of finch in the family Fringillidae. It is found only in Tanzania specifically in Mbeya Region and Njombe Region. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist montane forest and subtropical or tropical high-elevation shrubland. It is threatened by habitat loss.

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Distribution

Region

East African Highlands

Typical Environment

Occurs in the Southern Highlands of Tanzania, especially along the Kipengere/Livingstone escarpments and adjacent montane plateaus. It favors high-elevation shrubland, forest edges, clearings, and patches of secondary growth. Birds also use tussock grasslands and heath-like scrub with scattered shrubs and small trees. It may venture into fallow fields and road edges where seed-rich weeds are abundant.

Altitude Range

1,800–2,800 m

Climate Zone

Highland

Characteristics

Size12–13 cm

Wing Span18–21 cm

Male Weight0.015 kg

Female Weight0.014 kg

Life Expectancy6 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

Also called the Tanzania seedeater, this small finch is restricted to the Kipengere (Livingstone) Range and nearby Southern Highlands of Tanzania. It was formerly placed in the genus Serinus but moved to Crithagra following molecular studies of African canaries. It can be confused with streaky seedeaters, but tends to be darker with a heavier, pale horn bill and more subdued streaking. Habitat loss in montane shrublands and forest edges is the principal threat.

Behaviour

Temperament

wary and somewhat secretive

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats with undulating bouts

Social Behavior

Usually seen singly or in pairs during the breeding season; forms small loose flocks at other times and may join mixed-species seedeater groups. Likely monogamous, with a cup-shaped nest placed low in a shrub or bush. Pairs defend small territories around nesting sites.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

A soft, canary-like twitter composed of tinkling trills and short buzzes. Males sing from exposed perches such as shrub tops or small trees, and give dry 'tink' contact calls in flight.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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