- Serinus symonsi
Pseudochloroptila symonsi, Crithagra symonsi
Identification
Length 13-14 cm, mass 11 g. Male: The head and neck are olive-green, streaked brownish, the back is olive-brown, and the rump greenish. The tail is dark brown and white and the wings are brown. The throat and breast are yellow-green and the rest of the underparts are pale brown. The eyes, legs and feet are brown and the bill is brownish horn, the upper mandible being darker than the lower. Female: Similar to the male, but browner.
This species should not be confused with any other species within its range.
Distribution
Lesotho highlands and adjacent highlands in South Africa.
Taxonomy
This species is monotypic. This species was recently moved from the genus Serinus (or Pseudochloroptila) to Crithagra.
Habitat
High-altitude (2000-3000 m) heathlands, shrublands, grasslands and croplands.
Behaviour
Forages on the ground and in shrubs in pairs or small flocks. Food includes seeds, buds and insects.
References
Hockey PAR, Dean WRJ & Ryan PG (eds) 2005. Robert's Birds of Southern Africa, 7th edition. Cape Town: John Voelcker Bird Book Fund. ISBN 0620340533