The southern citril also known as Serinus hyposticus is a species of finch in the Fringillidae family. It is endemic to the eastern Afromontane.
Region
Eastern Afromontane
Typical Environment
Occurs in montane forests, forest edges, and adjacent shrubland and farmland within the Eastern Afromontane belt of East Africa. It favors mosaics of evergreen forest, bamboo thickets, and secondary growth. Often uses forest clearings, edges, and riparian strips where seed-bearing herbs and shrubs are abundant. Will descend into adjacent cultivated areas outside the breeding season, but remains tied to higher-elevation habitats overall.
Altitude Range
1000–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The southern citril is a small finch of the Afromontane forests, often seen at forest edges and in clearings where it forages in small groups. Its name hyposticta refers to the fine spotting on the underparts. Like many citrils, it has a lively, canary-like song and is more often heard than seen. It was formerly placed in the genus Serinus but is now commonly treated in Crithagra.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with undulating flight
Social Behavior
Outside the breeding season it forms small flocks or family parties that forage together in shrubs and at forest margins. Breeding pairs are monogamous and defend small territories. The nest is a small cup placed in dense shrubs or low trees, and both parents attend to the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A bright, canary-like series of trills, twitters, and tinkling notes delivered from exposed perches. Calls include thin seee and buzzing chips used to keep contact within flocks.
Plumage
Small, canary-like finch with olive-green upperparts and finely streaked or spotted yellowish underparts. Wings and tail are dusky with yellow edging, giving a subtle wing panel in flight. The underparts show fine dark mottling, especially on the breast and flanks.
Diet
Primarily takes small seeds from grasses, composites, and various herbaceous plants. Also consumes buds, young shoots, and occasional berries. During the breeding season it supplements with small insects and other invertebrates to provide protein for nestlings.
Preferred Environment
Forages at forest edges, along paths and clearings, and in adjacent farmland and gardens with seeding weeds. Often feeds low in shrubs or on the ground, moving between patches in small groups.
