Red-throated twinspot

The red-throated twinspot or Peters's twinspot is a common species of bird found in sub-saharan Africa. This species has a large range, with an estimated global extent of occurrence of 2,000,000 km2 (770,000 sq mi).

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Distribution

Region

East and Southeastern Africa

Typical Environment

Found patchily from coastal and inland thickets of East Africa south through Mozambique into adjacent parts of southeastern Africa. It favors dense undergrowth in coastal scrub, forest edges, riparian thickets, and secondary woodland. The species often occupies ecotones where grassy openings meet shrub tangles, using cover for foraging and nesting. It may occur near human settlements if dense shrubbery persists. Local abundance varies with understory density and availability of seeding grasses.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 1500 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size11–13 cm

Wing Span16–18 cm

Male Weight0.014 kg

Female Weight0.013 kg

Life Expectancy5 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 2/5

Useful to know

Also known as Peters's twinspot, this shy estrildid finch keeps to dense undergrowth and is often detected by its soft, high-pitched calls rather than seen. Males show a vivid red throat and face and perform courtship displays that include bowing and offering food. It adapts to well-vegetated gardens and forest edges where cover is abundant. Despite a large range in sub-Saharan Africa, it remains locally patchy due to its preference for thick cover.

Gallery

Behaviour

Temperament

shy and skulking

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats with low, darting flights between cover

Social Behavior

Usually seen in pairs or small family groups, keeping close to dense vegetation. Monogamous pairs build a domed or ball-shaped nest low in thickets or grass tussocks. Both parents share incubation and chick rearing. Outside breeding, small loose flocks may form where food is abundant.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

A series of very soft, high-pitched whistles and thin tinkling notes, often given from within cover. Contact calls are delicate 'tsit' or 'tsee' notes. The song can be easily overlooked amid insect noise.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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