The Zambezi indigobird, also known as the twinspot indigobird or green indigobird, is a species of bird in the family Viduidae. It is found in Malawi, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
Region
Zambezi Basin, south-central Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs in and around the Zambezi River drainage across parts of Malawi, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. It frequents open woodland, riverine thickets, miombo edges, and grassy clearings where twinspots occur. Presence is closely tied to host populations and suitable seed-rich foraging areas. It often uses lightly wooded habitats near water and human-modified edges with scattered shrubs.
Altitude Range
200–1600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This brood-parasitic finch lays its eggs in the nests of twinspots, most notably the Green Twinspot, and its chicks imitate the host’s gape patterns to be fed. Males famously mimic the songs and calls of their host species, which helps attract appropriately imprinted mates. Breeding males show a glossy greenish-blue sheen, while females are brown and streaked, resembling small finches.
Temperament
secretive but active; males become conspicuous when singing
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with bounding, finch-like flight
Social Behavior
Males defend song perches and display sites while advertising with host-mimicking songs. As an obligate brood parasite, females lay eggs in twinspot nests, and no nest is built by the species itself. Chicks mimic host nestlings’ mouth markings, ensuring parental care from the host. Outside breeding, small loose groups may form at feeding sites.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A mix of thin, buzzy notes and rapid rattles that closely mimic the host twinspot’s repertoire, interspersed with metallic chits. Males repeat phrases persistently from exposed perches, with soft call notes given during chases.
