Green-backed twinspot

Green-backed twinspot

Green twinspot

Kingdom
Phylum
Class
Family
Genus
SPECIES
Mandingoa nitidula

The green-backed twinspot or green twinspot (Mandingoa nitidula ) is an estrildid finch found in many parts of Sub-Saharan Africa. The IUCN has classified the species as being of least concern.

Distribution

Geography

The green-backed twinspot inhabits lowland moist forests of the tropical region. It may also be found in grassland and shrubland habitats.

Show More

Males are distinguished from females by their bright red facial feathers. Females have an olive-green face and darker (almost black) beak.

Show Less

Habits and Lifestyle

Lifestyle
Seasonal behavior
Bird's call

Diet and Nutrition

Domestication

The green backed twinspot prefers its privacy in regards to breeding. Males in the breeding season will raise their heads, looking straight up while "dancing" on the perch next to the female, moving in a side-stepping fashion. The female, if receptive, will crouch down and point her tail to the male. Green backed twinspots tend to pair with one female and care for her and the young while breeding. Up to four eggs are laid about five days after mating, usually one daily. The female will go in and out of the nest frequently until all eggs are laid and will sit in place to incubate thereafter, ensuring all hatch in relatively close proximity.

Show More

This species enjoys a large, planted aviary with plenty of privacy for breeding. Temperatures in captivity should not dip below 70 °F or exceed 84 °F. Green back twinspots may be housed as single pairs, singles, or in groups up to four pairs in a large flight.

The birds eat millet, dark leafy greens, fresh bananas, cooked brown rice and mixed finch seed.

Show Less

References

1. Green-backed twinspot Wikipedia article - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Green-backed_twinspot
2. Green-backed twinspot on The IUCN Red List site - https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22719354/132127786
3. Xeno-canto bird call - https://xeno-canto.org/398118

More Fascinating Animals to Learn About