Cut-throat finch


The cut-throat finch is a common species of estrildid finch found throughout Africa; it is also known as the bearded finch, the ribbon finch, the cut throat, and the weaver finch.
The cut-throat finch has plumage that is pale, sandy brown with flecks of black all over. They have a black-brown tail, a thick white chin and cheeks, and a chestnut brown patch on the belly. The legs are a pink fleshy colour. The adult male has a bright red band across its throat, while the male juveniles have a slightly duller red band.
It has an estimated global extent of occurrence of 3,300,000 km². It is found throughout much of Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in the Sahel, eastern and southern parts of the continent.

Reproduction

Cut-throat finches usually use nests constructed by other birds. A clutch usually consists of 3 to 6 white eggs, which hatch after an incubation period of 12 days.

Origin

Origin and phylogeny has been obtained by Antonio Arnaiz-Villena et al.. Estrildinae may have originated in India and dispersed thereafter. Its closest relative is the red-headed finch.

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