The Príncipe seedeater is a species of finch in the family Fringillidae. It is found only on the islands of São Tomé and Príncipe off the west coast of Africa. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical dry forest and subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest.
Region
Gulf of Guinea (São Tomé and Príncipe)
Typical Environment
Occurs on the islands of Príncipe and São Tomé off the west coast of Central Africa. It occupies primary and secondary lowland forests, forest edges, and regenerating scrub. The species is frequently found in agroforestry mosaics, including cocoa and coffee plantations, and ventures into village gardens where grasses and weeds set seed. It favors clearings and edges where seeding herbs are abundant but also forages within the understory of moist forest.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Príncipe seedeater is an island finch endemic to São Tomé and Príncipe and was formerly placed in the genus Serinus. It adapts well to forest edges and agroforestry habitats such as cocoa and coffee plantations. Its song is a soft, canary‑like twitter, and pairs often remain together through the breeding season. As with many finches, it feeds mostly on seeds but supplements with small invertebrates, especially when raising young.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short, undulating flight with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often seen in pairs or small family groups, forming looser flocks outside the breeding season. Nests are cup-shaped and placed in shrubs or small trees, with both parents involved in rearing. Territoriality is modest, focused around nest sites and immediate feeding areas.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft, canary-like series of trills, twitters, and high tinkling notes delivered from a perch or during short song flights. Calls include thin seep notes and short chips used to keep contact within small groups.
