Region

South-central Africa

Typical Environment

Found in southern Malawi, northwestern Mozambique, southeastern Zambia, and adjacent parts of Zimbabwe. It favors mopane (Colophospermum mopane) and mixed woodland, riverine thickets, and wooded savannas, often near permanent water. Birds use natural cavities in baobab, mopane, and other trees for nesting. They may forage along field margins and floodplains, especially after rains. Human-altered landscapes are used when seed resources are abundant but only where safe roost sites and water remain nearby.

Altitude Range

200–1400 m

Climate Zone

Subtropical

Temperament

social and active

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats

Social Behavior

Usually seen in small to medium flocks outside the breeding season, gathering at waterholes and seed-rich patches. Pairs are monogamous and nest in natural tree cavities, the female carrying bark strips or grass tucked into her rump feathers. Roosting is communal, often in dense foliage or cavities. Breeding often coincides with the end of the rains when seeds and water are abundant.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Calls are high-pitched, sharp chits and chatter, often given in rapid series during flight. When perched, flocks keep up a lively twittering with occasional shrills, becoming louder at water sources or feeding sites.

Diet

Primarily consumes grass and herb seeds, buds, and small fruits. It also takes seeds from mopane and acacias and can visit agricultural fields for millet, sorghum, and maize spillage. Birds often descend to the ground to pick fallen seeds, then return to cover to husk them. Access to open water is important, and they drink daily.

Preferred Environment

Feeds along woodland edges, floodplains, and near watercourses where seed heads are abundant. It also exploits weedy patches and field margins, retreating to nearby trees for safety.