The locust finch or locustfinch is a species of waxbill found in south-central and south-eastern Africa. It is the only species in the genus Paludipasser. It is sometimes placed in the genus Ortygospiza.
Region
South-central and south-eastern Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs patchily in seasonally inundated grasslands, floodplains, and damp meadows with tall grasses and sedges. It favors 'dambos' and grassy margins of marshes and slow-flowing streams, often where recent burns have opened dense stands. Birds keep close to the ground and slip into cover at the slightest disturbance. Local movements follow rainfall and grass seeding cycles, leading to fluctuating presence at sites.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The locust finch is a secretive, ground-loving waxbill of seasonally wet African grasslands and the sole member of its genus, Paludipasser. It is sometimes placed with the quailfinches (Ortygospiza) due to similar habitat and behavior. Its name reflects its habit of taking small grasshoppers and other orthopterans, especially in the breeding season. Fires and fresh post-rain growth often attract it to newly greened grasslands.
Temperament
secretive and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low and undulating over grass
Social Behavior
Usually in pairs or small parties, keeping low and running mouse-like through tussocks. Nests are placed low in grass clumps during the wet season, with both parents involved in care. Likely monogamous, with breeding timed to peaks in insects and seeding grasses.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are thin and high-pitched, with short tseep notes and insect-like buzzes. Song is subdued and often delivered from within cover, making the bird easier to hear than to see.
Plumage
Cryptic, finely streaked brown upperparts with a buffy to warm-toned wash and subtle streaking across the breast; underparts buff to grey-buff becoming paler on the belly. Overall plumage is adapted to blend with tall, dry grasses. Tail short; wings rounded.
Diet
Takes small grass seeds and other fine grains gleaned from seedheads and the ground. Supplements with insects—especially grasshoppers, crickets, and termites—more heavily during breeding. Forages quietly, making short sallies or quick pounces at prey flushed from grass. Diet shifts with rainfall and grass seeding cycles.
Preferred Environment
Feeds on the ground and lower stems in tall, seasonally wet grasses, sedges, and recently burnt patches with new growth. Often near shallow water, floodplains, and dambo edges where seed and insect availability is high.
