Amandava formosa
The Green Avadavat, *Amandava formosa*, is a diminutive yet strikingly beautiful estrildid finch, typically measuring 9-10 cm in length with a wingspan of approximately 13-14 cm and weighing 7-9 grams. Its most prominent feature is its vibrant olive-green plumage, earning it its common name. Males are particularly resplendent, sporting a bright red, conical bill, red patches on the flanks adorned with white spots, and a contrasting black undertail. Females exhibit a similar pattern but are no...
Primarily found in open grasslands, cultivated fields, and areas of scrub jungle, often favoring thorny bushes near water sources. It typically inhabits plains and foothills up to elevations of around 1,500 meters.
Feeds predominantly on small grass seeds, which it extracts from various grass species and cultivated crops. It occasionally supplements its diet with small insects, particularly during the breeding season.
Green Avadavats are largely diurnal and highly social, often observed foraging in small flocks, particularly outside the breeding season, though pairs maintain a degree of individuality. They are primarily ground-foragers, meticulously gleaning seeds from the soil and grass stalks, often displayi...
The Green Avadavat is endemic to the Indian subcontinent, primarily distributed across central and western India. Its core breeding range extends through states such as Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Odisha, and parts of Andhra Pradesh. While largely reside...
Near Threatened
- The name "Avadavat" is believed to be a corruption of Ahmedabad, a city in Gujarat, India, which was a major trading center for these birds historically. - Green Avadavats are sometimes referred to as Green Munias, highlighting their finch-like appearance. - Despite their small size, they are q...