The yellow-browed seedeater is a species of finch in the family Fringillidae. It is found in Malawi, Tanzania, and Zambia.
Region
South-Central Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs mainly in upland and montane zones, favoring miombo (Brachystegia) woodland, forest edges, and adjacent scrub. It also uses open grassy glades, thickets, and seed-rich clearings, and may visit gardens and farmland margins. The species tends to avoid dense lowland rainforest and arid open plains. It perches on shrubs and small trees to sing and descends to the ground or low herbage to feed.
Altitude Range
900–2400 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The yellow-browed seedeater is a small African finch named for its distinct yellow eyebrow (supercilium). It frequents upland woodlands and forest edges in Malawi, Tanzania, and Zambia, often forming small flocks outside the breeding season. Like many finches, it shows local movements following seeding grasses. Its tinkling, twittering song is most noticeable at dawn from exposed perches.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with bounding, finch-like undulation
Social Behavior
Typically seen in pairs during the breeding season and in small flocks or loose parties at other times. Builds a small cup nest in shrubs or low trees; likely monogamous. Often joins mixed-species finch flocks at seeding sites.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A light, twittering series of trills and tinkling notes delivered from exposed perches. Calls include thin, high-pitched tsit or tsee contact notes. Song can accelerate into short, musical rattles.
