The white-rumped seedeater is a species of finch in the family Fringillidae. It is found throughout the Sahel and the eastern part of the Sudan region. Its natural habitat is dry savanna. It is known elsewhere and in aviculture as the grey singing finch.
Region
Sahel and eastern Sudanian savanna of Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs from West African Sahel east through Chad and Sudan to Eritrea, Ethiopia, and adjacent parts of the Horn of Africa. Favors dry savanna, thorn scrub, and open woodland edges with scattered bushes. Common around villages, fallow fields, and acacia-dominated habitats. Often uses areas with seed-rich grasses after rains, shifting locally as resources change.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 4/5
Also known in aviculture as the grey singing finch, this small canary-relative is prized for its clear, tinkling song. The bright white rump, often flashed in flight, is the easiest field mark. It adapts well to human-modified savanna and thorn scrub. It may be confused with other Sahel seedeaters, but the contrasting rump and soft gray tones are distinctive.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with undulating flight
Social Behavior
Typically found in pairs during the breeding season and small flocks at other times, sometimes joining mixed-species finch groups. Builds a small cup nest in shrubs or low trees. Generally monogamous, with both parents attending the young.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Male gives a bright, tinkling series of trills and warbles from a perch, often prolonged. Calls include soft twitters and thin, sibilant notes exchanged within foraging groups.
