Red-headed Fody
Foudia eminentissima
A sparrow-like weaver. Red-hooded breeding males are distinctive, but females and non-breeding males are drab. A Comoros endemic that is found in and adjacent to humid forest on the western three islands, and in drier, scrubby lowland habitats on Mayotte. Plumage varies across the different islands. The most distinctive birds, on Grand Comoro, have much less red on the breast than other populations. Can be very similar to Red Fody. Breeding male Red-headed Fody lacks red on the back and belly, though molting male Red Fody can match this pattern. Females and non-breeding males very similar to Red Fody, but Red-headed Fody is larger, darker, and more greenish, with a longer, slightly curved bill. Also similar to female House Sparrow, but distinguished by the more olive-green coloration and the longer bill. Calls are high, silvery notes, given in long series as a song.
Taxonomy
- Scientific name
- Foudia eminentissima
- Authority
- Bonaparte, 1850
- Order
- Passeriformes
- Family
- Ploceidae
- Genus
- Foudia
Range and habitat
- Migration
- Resident species
Conservation
- Population trend
- stable
Photos
Other Birds
Drab Swiftlet
Collocalia neglecta
A very small, square-tailed dark swift with a dirty white breast, belly, and base of the undertail. An aerial species, usually seen in flocks in flight over a variety of habitats, including forest. In its limited range within the eastern Lesser Sundas, it only overlaps with one other similar species, White-nest Swiftlet. Drab Swiftlet is smaller, lacking an obvious tail notch, and has white underparts.
Sooty Barbet
Caloramphus hayii
Earth-toned bird with a large, powerful bill. Dark brown above and white below with a rusty-orange head and chest; the only predominantly brown barbet in its range. Inhabits both primary and secondary forests, occasionally venturing into edge habitats. Unlike other barbets, does not have a loud rollicking song; instead, listen for its high thin “tseep” notes, often given in series.
Yellow-throated Euphonia
Euphonia hirundinacea
Tiny finch of tropical lowlands and foothills, mainly in humid areas. Found in forest canopy, adjacent clearings with trees, gardens. Usually in pairs, sometimes small groups that associate readily with other euphonias, especially when feeding at mistletoe. Male has rich yellow throat and underparts (lacks black throat of male Scrub Euphonia); female has pale grayish throat and yellow sides creating a vested appearance. Young male looks like female with an adult male head stuck on.
Start Your Bird Watching Journey
Identify a bird outdoors and keep the field guide close for your next observation.