Nigrita bicolor
The Chestnut-breasted Nigrita (Nigrita bicolor) is a diminutive and often elusive member of the Estrildidae family, showcasing a striking contrast of deep black upperparts and rich chestnut underparts. Measuring approximately 10-11 cm (4-4.3 inches) in length and weighing a mere 8-12 grams, its small size contributes to its skulking nature in dense forest undergrowth. Key field marks include this distinct two-tone plumage, a dark conical bill, and sometimes an inconspicuous white eye-ring, wh...
This species primarily inhabits lowland tropical rainforests, secondary growth, gallery forests, and forest edges, generally found from sea level up to 1,500 meters, occasionally reaching 2,000 meters.
Primarily insectivorous, feeding on small insects such as ants, termites, small beetles, caterpillars, and spiders. They also supplement their diet with small seeds and berries, which are gleaned from vegetation.
Chestnut-breasted Nigritas are typically diurnal, spending most of their time foraging discreetly within the dense foliage of the forest understory. They exhibit a characteristic skulking behavior, often heard before they are seen, flitting quietly among branches and leaves. Foraging involves met...
The Chestnut-breasted Nigrita is a resident species found across a broad swathe of West and Central Africa. Its breeding and year-round distribution extends from Sierra Leone and Guinea eastward through Liberia, Côte d'Ivoire, Ghana, Togo, Nigeria, Cameroon, and Equatorial Guinea. Further south a...
Least Concern
- The genus name 'Nigrita' is derived from Latin, meaning 'blackish,' a direct reference to their dark upperparts. - Despite their 'finch' classification, their foraging behavior for insects often leads birders to initially mistake them for warblers. - They are known to be quite adept at extracti...