Alternative names: Scaly-fronted Weaver, Scaly-feathered Weaver, Scaly-feathered Finch
- Sporopipes squamifrons
Identification
Length 10-11 cm; mass 8.5-13.7 g.
Adult: Scaly forecrown, pink bill and broad black malar stripe are distinctive.
Distribution
Drier parts of southern Africa: Central and north-central South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe and southern Angola.
Taxonomy
This is either a monotypic species1 or up to three subspecies are recognized; if the latter, these are squamifrons, cinerascens, and fuligescens.
Hockey et al.2 recognise two subspecies:
- S. s. squamifrons
- Southern Angola, Namibia (other than eastern Caprivi), western Botswana and north-western South Africa
- S. s. fuligescens
- Western Botswana, Caprivi (Namibia), Zimbabwe, eastern part of range in South Africa.
Habitat
Dry savanna, bushy desert watercourses, croplands, farmyards and gardens.
Behaviour
Usually in small groups (up to 20 individuals). Forages on the ground for grass seeds; also eats termites.
Breeding
Monogamous; nests may be closely clustered, but generally not colonial. May breed cooperatively. The nest is a hollow ball of dry grass with a side entrance. Two to seven eggs may be laid at any time of the year; incubated for 10-12 days and nestling period 14-18 days.
References
- Fry H, Keith S, Woodcook M & Willis I. 2004. Birds of Africa Vol VII: Sparrows to Buntings. Princeton University Press. ISBN 0713665319
- Hockey PAR, Dean WRJ & Ryan PG (eds) 2005. Robert's Birds of Southern Africa, 7th edition. John Voelcker Bird Book Fund, Cape Town, South Africa. ISBN 0620340533
External Links
GSearch checked for 2020 platform.1
