The African silverbill (Lonchura cantans) is a small passerine bird formerly considered conspecific with the Asian species Indian silverbill, (Lonchura malabarica). This estrildid finch is a common resident breeding bird in dry savanna habitat, south of the Sahara Desert. This species has also been introduced to other countries such as Portugal, Qatar and USA. The African silverbill is approximately 10 cm (3.9 in) in length with a long black pointed tail. The adult has a stubby silver-blue bill, finely vermiculated light-brown upper parts, whitish underparts, black rump and black wings. The sexes are similar, but immatures lack the vermiculations. This species has a tseep call and a trilling song. The African silverbill is approximately 10 cm (4 in) in length with a long black pointed tail. The adult has a stubby silver-blue bill, finely vermiculated light-brown upper parts, whitish underparts, black rump and black wings. The sexes are similar, but immatures lack the vermiculations. This species has a tseep call and a trilling song.
Geography: Africa and Middle East
Song/Call: Click here to listen to the African Silverbill
Size/Weight: 4.25″ Long / 9.5 to 10 g
Life Span: Approximately 7 years
Sexing: African Silverbills are not easily sexed visually.
DNA Testing
If there is no gender option listed for a bird on our website, that particular species is ‘monomorphic’, which means we’re unable to determine gender without purchasing DNA testing. DNA testing is an additional $149 per bird to guarantee preferred gender. DNA testing may add an additional 3-6 plus weeks to estimated delivery time to allow for gender results. See our FAQs for more info.
Temperament: The African silverbill is peaceful and highly social often found perching in trees in dense flocks, touching one another.
Breeding: The nest of the African silverbill is usually built in the form of a roundish bundle of grasses. It is lined with soft fibres and sometimes feathers, and may be placed in a thick bush or hedge or amongst the creepers on a house. The male is recorded in the wild as collecting all the nesting material (Meinertzhagen 1954), while the female only shares in construction.
Diet: Classic Finch Seed, Australian Blend Goldenfeast, Millet Sprays, Mineral Grit, Dried Egg Food, greens
