Reichard's seedeater is a species of finch in the family Fringillidae. It is native to the miombo savanna . It is named after the German explorer Paul Reichard.
Region
Miombo belt of south-central Africa
Typical Environment
Found in miombo (Brachystegia–Julbernardia) woodland and wooded savanna, especially along edges, clearings, and secondary scrub. It also frequents weedy fields, fallows, and lightly cultivated areas near woodland. Birds often exploit recently burned or grazed patches where grasses are seeding. Riparian thickets and termite-mound vegetation within miombo mosaics are regularly used.
Altitude Range
500–1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Named after the German explorer Paul Reichard, this small finch is closely tied to the miombo savanna of south‑central Africa. It often forms small flocks outside the breeding season and may mix with other seedeaters at seeding grasses. Its numbers typically rise locally after fires when fresh grass seed becomes abundant. The species was formerly placed in the genus Serinus before being moved to Crithagra.
Reichard’s Seedeater
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief undulating glides
Social Behavior
Usually in pairs during the breeding season and in small, loose flocks at other times, sometimes associating with other canaries and seedeaters. Nests are cup-shaped and placed in shrubs or small trees, built from fine grasses and plant fibers. Breeding tends to coincide with rains when seed and green material are abundant.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft, twittering series of trills and tinkling notes delivered from exposed perches. Calls are thin, high chips used to keep contact within foraging groups.
