The streaky seedeater is a species of finch in the family Fringillidae. It is native to the eastern Afromontane.
Region
Eastern Afromontane
Typical Environment
Occurs in highland regions from Eritrea and Ethiopia south through South Sudan, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, and northern Tanzania. It favors forest edges, montane scrub, heath, bamboo zones, and cultivated highland landscapes with scattered trees. The species adapts well to human-modified habitats, including gardens and coffee farms. It forages from ground level to shrub tops and along weedy roadsides.
Altitude Range
1200–3600 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The streaky seedeater is a small finch of the eastern Afromontane, often seen around forest edges, highland farms, and gardens. It was formerly placed in the genus Serinus but is now in Crithagra following genetic studies. Pairs nest low in shrubs or small trees and often join loose flocks outside the breeding season. By consuming weed seeds, it can help limit invasive plants around settlements.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
undulating flight with short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically seen in pairs during breeding and in small to medium flocks outside the season. The cup-shaped nest is placed in shrubs or small trees, using fine plant fibers and hair. Both parents tend the young, and family groups may remain together for a time after fledging.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A fast, twittering series of trills and buzzy notes delivered from exposed perches. Calls include sharp chips and thin tseet notes used to keep contact within flocks.
Plumage
Overall brownish and heavily streaked above and below, with pale, finely streaked underparts and darker streaks on the breast and flanks. The back and wings are mottled brown with pale edging, giving a streaky appearance. Underparts are buffy to whitish with strong streaking.
Diet
Primarily takes small seeds of grasses, herbs, and composites. Also eats buds and fresh shoots, especially when seeds are scarce. During breeding it supplements the diet with small insects and other invertebrates for protein.
Preferred Environment
Feeds on the ground and low vegetation along forest edges, weedy fields, and farm margins. Frequently visits gardens, roadsides, and disturbed patches rich in seed-producing plants.
