Crithagra leucopygia
The White-rumped Seedeater (Crithagra leucopygia) is a charming and petite passerine, measuring approximately 11-13 cm (4.3-5.1 inches) in length and weighing a mere 9-15 grams. Its most distinctive feature, giving rise to its common name, is the conspicuous pure white rump that contrasts sharply with its otherwise predominantly pale grey plumage, which extends across its head and upperparts. The underparts are off-white, and the wings and tail are darker, often with paler edgings. A robust, ...
This adaptable seedeater primarily inhabits dry savannas, semi-desert fringes, open scrubland, and cultivated areas, often found at low to moderate elevations.
Their diet consists predominantly of small grass and herb seeds, supplemented with a small proportion of insects, especially during the breeding season.
White-rumped Seedeaters are diurnal birds, highly active during daylight hours and typically roosting communally in dense vegetation at night. Their primary foraging strategy involves gleaning seeds directly from the ground or from low-lying grasses and herbaceous plants, often in small, mixed-sp...
The White-rumped Seedeater has an extensive distribution across sub-Saharan Africa, primarily inhabiting the Sahelian zone. Its breeding range stretches from Mauritania and Senegal in the west, eastward through countries like Mali, Niger, Chad, Sudan, and Eritrea. The range extends southwards int...
Least Concern
- The White-rumped Seedeater's scientific name 'leucopygia' literally means 'white-rumped', derived from Greek ('leukos' for white, 'pyge' for rump). - Despite its preference for arid habitats, it is often found near water sources for drinking. - It is a highly adaptable species, frequently seen ...