The quailfinch is a species of the estrildid finch. It is found in open grasslands in Africa. They are gregarious seed-eaters with short, thick, red bills. They are very terrestrial, with lark-like feet and claws.
Region
Sub-Saharan Africa
Typical Environment
Found widely across open grasslands, savannas, floodplains, and lightly cultivated fields, often near water. They favor short to medium-height grasses and edges of wetlands, including recently burned or grazed areas that expose seed. Dense forest and very arid deserts are generally avoided, though they can persist in mosaics of scrub and grass. Nests are typically placed low in grass clumps or on the ground, well concealed by vegetation.
Altitude Range
0–2200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 3/5
Quailfinches are highly terrestrial estrildids that prefer to run through grass rather than fly, using short bursts of rapid, low flight when flushed. Males typically show a striking black face and throat with a bright red bill, while females are duller and more cryptic. They often form small coveys and frequent recently burned or grazed areas where seeds are abundant. Their soft, tinkling contact calls help keep groups together in dense grass.
Temperament
social and wary
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low and fast over grass
Social Behavior
Often in pairs or small coveys that skulk through grass, communicating with soft contact calls. Ground-nesting in concealed grass domes; breeding typically coincides with rains when seeds and insects peak. Pairs are generally monogamous and both sexes participate in caring for young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a soft, tinkling series of notes, interspersed with high, thin calls. Calls are used frequently to maintain contact while moving through dense cover.
