Scaly feathered finch

Introduction: Scaly-feathered finches (Sporopipes squamifrons) can be found in gardens and farmyards, as well as Acacia woodland with small trees and in small shrubs and bushes near seasonal rivers. Groups of up to 20 are most common.

Distribution: Found throughout Namibia less for southern Namib Desert. Common in Etosha National Park and the Kalahari Desert.
Diet: Eats mainly seeds of grasses and at times termites.

Description:   A small weaver with a short bill.  Squamifrons is Latin for 'scaly-forehead', referring to the black forecrown which is scaled white. Sports distinctive throat markings.
Breeding: From 2 to 7 oval eggs are laid in a hollow ball, with a side entrance, made from dry grass stems and lined with grass flowers. Laying dates are monthly, less for July and hatchlings appear after a period of up to 12 days incubation.

Size: 11cm.

Weight: 12g.