The red-headed parrotfinch is a common species of estrildid finch found in the Samoan Islands. It has an estimated global extent of occurrence of 20,000 to 50,000 km2.
Region
Samoan Islands
Typical Environment
Occurs on the main islands and some smaller islets across the Samoan archipelago, using lowland and lower montane rainforest, secondary growth, and agroforestry mosaics. It frequents forest edges, clearings, villages, and plantations where grasses and shrubs seed abundantly. Birds often move nomadically at a local scale following seeding events, especially bamboo and guinea grass. It adapts well to partly disturbed environments as long as cover and food remain available.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1400 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Endemic to the Samoan Islands, this finch is often seen moving quietly through forest edges and plantations. It frequently forms small flocks that track seeding grasses and bamboo, leading to sudden local abundance. The species tolerates moderately disturbed habitats, which helps keep its numbers stable. Predation by introduced rats and habitat loss remain localized concerns.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small flocks that forage together and keep soft contact calls. Likely monogamous, building a globular grass nest concealed in shrubs or tree crowns. Breeding can occur year-round with peaks following periods of heavy seeding.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a thin, tinkling series of high notes delivered from cover, interspersed with soft trills. Calls include sharp, metallic 'tsit' notes used to maintain flock cohesion.
Plumage
Compact finch with a bright red head and rump contrasting with a mostly green body; plumage is smooth and even-toned. The tail is red, and the underparts are green with a slight yellowish wash. Females are slightly duller; juveniles are mostly green with limited or no red on the head.
Diet
Feeds primarily on small grass seeds, including those of guinea grass and other weedy species, and readily exploits bamboo mast seeding. Also takes berries and other soft fruits when available. Supplements diet with small insects and other invertebrates, especially during breeding to feed nestlings.
Preferred Environment
Forages in grassy clearings, along forest edges, in secondary growth, village gardens, and plantations. Often clings to seed heads and gleanes quietly among shrubs and low trees.
