Cinnamon breasted bunting

Introduction: Rocky ridges, granite and dolerite outcrops supporting some trees and bushes, as well as mountain sides number amongst the favoured habitats of the cinnamon-breasted bunting. (Emberiza tahapisi). Tahapsisi is believed to be from the Tswana 'tahapitsi' meaning 'various finches and indigobirds'.

Distribution: Widespread in the western and northern range of Namibia. Found in Epupa Falls, Kaokoland and Damaraland. Can also be observed north of Mariental through Windhoek to Otjiwarongo.
Diet: Eats small insects such as beetles as well as grass seeds from bristle grasses and forb seeds.

Description: Black head with distinctive white, crown stripes.
Breeding: From 2 to 4 eggs are laid in a shallow cup of grass, rootlets and twigs from October to March. Incubation is for up to 14 days.

Size: 15cm.

Weight: 15g.