Cryptospiza reichenovii
The Red-faced Crimsonwing (Cryptospiza reichenovii) is a striking and elusive estrildid finch, measuring approximately 12-13 cm in length and weighing 12-18 grams. Males are particularly vibrant, boasting a brilliant crimson-red face, crown, and sometimes throat, contrasting sharply with their olive-green upperparts and grayish-olive underparts. Their wings are dark with a noticeable red wash, and a bright red rump serves as a subtle but distinctive field mark, especially when in flight or se...
Found in the dense undergrowth of montane and submontane evergreen forests, forest edges, and secondary growth, typically at elevations between 900 and 2,500 meters.
Primarily granivorous, feeding on small grass seeds and the seeds of various herbaceous plants, supplemented with small insects, spiders, and occasionally berries or nectar. Forages by gleaning from low vegetation and the ground.
Red-faced Crimsonwings are generally shy and elusive, spending most of their time foraging in the dense lower strata of their forest habitat. They are usually observed in pairs or small family groups, often keeping low to the ground and utilizing thick cover. Foraging involves gleaning small seed...
The Red-faced Crimsonwing exhibits a disjunct distribution across central and eastern Africa, primarily associated with montane and submontane forest blocks. Its western populations are found in southeastern Nigeria, western Cameroon (including the Bismarck and Gotel Mountains), and Bioko Island....
Least Concern
- The genus name 'Cryptospiza' literally means 'hidden finch,' a fitting description for this elusive forest dweller. - Despite its striking red face, the Red-faced Crimsonwing is remarkably difficult to spot due to its habit of staying deep within dense forest undergrowth. - It is one of only fo...