The western citril, also known as the yellow-browed citril, is a species of finch in the family Fringillidae. It is found in central Africa.
Region
West-Central Africa (Cameroon Highlands)
Typical Environment
Primarily associated with the Cameroon Highlands and nearby montane systems in Central Africa. It frequents forest edges, clearings, montane grasslands with scattered shrubs, and secondary woodland. The species uses ecotones where seeding herbs are plentiful, including road verges and lightly cultivated plots. Outside breeding, it may descend slightly to submontane zones but remains tied to upland habitats.
Altitude Range
1200–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Also called the yellow-browed citril, this finch belongs to the African serins in the family Fringillidae. It favors montane edges and secondary growth where seeding grasses and composites are abundant. Like many finches, it often forms small flocks outside the breeding season and visits cultivated areas. Its taxonomy has previously been placed in Serinus.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with undulating progress
Social Behavior
Outside the breeding season it gathers in small, loose flocks that wander locally in search of seeding plants. Pairs establish small territories during breeding and nest in shrubs or small trees. They may associate with other serins and finches while foraging.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A lively, tinkling series of trills and twitters delivered from exposed perches. The song is rapid and melodious, interspersed with soft buzzes and sweet, canary-like phrases.
Plumage
Olive-tinged upperparts with fine darker streaking, cleaner yellow underparts with light flank streaks, and a distinct yellow supercilium. Wings and tail are dusky with pale edges, giving a slightly barred look. Overall feathering is sleek and finely textured.
Diet
Primarily consumes small seeds of grasses and herbaceous plants, often taking composites and weedy pioneers. Supplements diet with buds, young shoots, and occasional small fruits. During breeding it adds small insects and other invertebrates for protein.
Preferred Environment
Forages in montane grasslands, forest edges, fallows, and secondary growth where seed heads are abundant. Frequently feeds on the ground and low shrubs, moving between patches in short flights.
