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.
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
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
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.
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.
Plumage
Dusky grey-brown upperparts with fine streaking, paler underparts with streaked breast and flanks; overall darker and more uniform than similar seedeaters.
Diet
Primarily takes small seeds from grasses and herbaceous plants. Also eats buds and soft plant matter, and will take small insects and larvae, especially during breeding to feed nestlings. Forages methodically, often on or near the ground and in low shrubs.
Preferred Environment
Feeds along shrub-lined edges, weedy clearings, fallow fields, and open patches within montane forest mosaics. Frequently uses areas with seeding grasses and forbs, including disturbed or secondary growth.
