Red headed finch

Introduction: The Red-Headed Finch (Amadina erythrocephala) is a vibrant passerine bird commonly seen in Namibia. With a bright red head and white belly, it forages for seeds and insects in open grasslands. During breeding, the male displays courtship behaviours to attract females.

Description: The Red-Headed Finch is a medium-sized bird with an eye-catching appearance. The male exhibits striking red plumage on its head, contrasting with its white underparts and brownish wings and back. The female has a more subdued colouration, with a pale grey head. Both sexes have a sturdy, conical bill ideal for consuming seeds.

Habitat: This species is commonly found in open grasslands and savannas, where it can forage for seeds and insects. It is also known to frequent agricultural areas, where food sources are abundant.

Diet: The Red-Headed Finch feeds primarily on seeds, including grass seeds and grains. During the breeding season, it supplements its diet with insects, which are an essential protein source for the growing chicks.

Behaviour: This social bird is often observed in small flocks, foraging on the ground for seeds and insects. During the breeding season, the male displays its vibrant red plumage and engages in courtship dances to attract a mate.

Reproduction: The Red-Headed Finch constructs its nest in shrubs or trees, using a combination of plant materials, feathers, and grass. The female lays a clutch of eggs, and both parents take turns incubating the eggs and caring for the young chicks.

Size: The Red-Headed Finch typically measures about 11–13 centimetres (4–5 inches) in length.

Weight: It usually weighs between 12–14 grams.