Foudia omissa
The Forest Fody (Foudia omissa) is a vibrant and elusive member of the weaver family (Ploceidae), endemic to the humid forests of eastern Madagascar. This small passerine measures approximately 12-13 cm in length, with a robust, conical bill. During the breeding season, males undergo a striking transformation, developing a brilliant crimson-red head, breast, and rump, contrasting sharply with their olive-green back and wings and dusky lores. Non-breeding males and females are considerably dul...
Primarily inhabits humid evergreen rainforests, including pristine primary and mature secondary forests, and forest edges. Found from near sea level up to 2000 meters elevation, but most common at mid-altitudes (800-1500m).
Primarily insectivorous, feeding on beetles, caterpillars, and spiders, supplemented by small fruits (e.g., mistletoe berries) and nectar. Forages by gleaning from foliage and branches.
Forest Fodies are diurnal and highly active, typically foraging in the mid-story and canopy layers, though occasionally descending lower. They employ an active gleaning strategy, meticulously searching foliage and branches for insects and spiders, also readily consuming small fruits and nectar. O...
The Forest Fody is exclusively endemic to the humid evergreen forests of eastern Madagascar. Its range extends along the entire eastern escarpment, from the Marojejy Massif in the northeast down to the Andohahela National Park in the southeast. Key protected areas where it can be found include Ma...
Least Concern
- The breeding male Forest Fody undergoes one of the most dramatic seasonal plumage changes among passerines, transforming from dull olive-green to brilliant crimson and green. - Unlike its more common relative, the Madagascar Fody (*F. madagascariensis*), the Forest Fody strictly prefers pristin...