Amadina fasciata
The Cut-throat Finch, *Amadina fasciata*, is a charming and distinctive estrildid finch native to sub-Saharan Africa. This small, plump passerine measures approximately 12-13 cm (4.7-5.1 inches) in length and weighs between 11-17 grams, characterized by its warm cinnamon-brown upperparts and wings, finely barred flanks, and a white belly. The most striking field mark, and the source of its common name, is the male's vivid crimson-red transverse band across its white throat. Females share a si...
Found primarily in dry savannas, grasslands, acacia scrub, and cultivated areas, often near water sources. It thrives in arid to semi-arid lowlands, avoiding dense forests or high altitudes.
Primarily granivorous, feeding on small grass seeds gleaned from the ground. They supplement their diet with insects, particularly termites and ants, especially during the breeding season.
Cut-throat Finches are diurnal and highly gregarious, often forming small to large flocks outside the breeding season, sometimes mixing with other estrildid finches or sparrows, and roosting communally. They forage predominantly on the ground, meticulously gleaning small seeds and occasional inse...
The Cut-throat Finch boasts a wide distribution across sub-Saharan Africa, extending from Senegal in the west, eastward through the Sahel zone to Ethiopia and Somalia, and southwards into parts of East Africa and southern Africa. Its breeding and resident range encompasses countries including Gam...
Least Concern
- The male Cut-throat Finch's distinctive red throat band is known scientifically as a 'gular stripe', and is unique among finches in its precise transverse shape. - Despite their common name, they are not true finches in the same family as House Finches or Goldfinches, but belong to the Estrildi...