The orange-winged pytilia, also known as the golden-backed pytilia, is a species of estrildid finch found in Africa. It has a wide range and the International Union for Conservation of Nature has assessed it as being of least concern.
Region
South-central Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs patchily in dry savanna, miombo and mopane woodlands, and well-vegetated scrub across parts of Angola, southern Democratic Republic of the Congo, and adjacent Zambia and Namibia. Prefers woodland edges, thickets, and riparian fringes with tall grasses and scattered shrubs. Often close to water and in areas with seeding grasses after rains. It tolerates lightly modified habitats such as fallows and bushy farmland but avoids dense forest and very open desert.
Altitude Range
300–1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Also called the golden-backed pytilia, this small estrildid finch shows a striking orange wing panel that flashes in flight. It is typically shy and keeps to dense shrub and woodland edges. Pairs or small family groups forage quietly on or near the ground, taking seeds and small insects, especially during the breeding season.
Orange-winged Pytilia
Temperament
shy and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low and undulating between cover
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or small family parties, occasionally joining mixed finch flocks at seeding grasses. Territorial during breeding, with pairs nesting in dense shrubs or grass clumps in a well-concealed domed nest. Both parents participate in caring for the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft, tinkling series of high-pitched notes and trills delivered from cover, interspersed with thin ‘tsee’ calls. The song is modest in volume and often given during early morning and late afternoon.
Plumage
Upperparts golden-olive with a vivid orange wing panel; underparts pale grey to whitish with fine dark barring. Rump and tail often show reddish tones; head greyish with subtle facial contrast. Overall appearance is neatly barred below with a bright, warm-toned back and wings.
Diet
Feeds mainly on small grass and herb seeds, gleaned from the ground or low stems. During the breeding season it supplements with small insects such as termites and other invertebrates for added protein. Will also take tender shoots and the occasional small berry.
Preferred Environment
Forages in grassy clearings, along woodland edges, and at the margins of thickets and riparian strips. Frequently uses recently burned or rain-flushed areas with abundant seeding grasses.
