Peter Twinspot

The Peters Twin spot (Hypargos niveoguttatus) comes from East Africa where it is found near water at lower elevations. These birds are easily sexed as the carmine-red face of the male is buff in the female. Their nest is frequently built close to the ground, and they will be aggressive towards other red birds when breeding. Total length is around 5 inches. Small, chunky dark waxbill with bright white “twin spots” across the black belly. The male has a red hood and gray crown, and the female an orange breast and brownish head. Found in lush habitats, including forest edge, clearings, and thickets. Shy and inconspicuous. A distinctive call is a short, high trill. The rarely heard song is a complex mix of many different call types. Like Pink-throated Twin spot, but male separated by the gray crown, and female by the orange breast. Best kept at temperatures around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, Peters Twin spot requires mixed millets, canary seed, and wild grass seeds. Some will eat egg food, but others will ignore it. Live food and sprouted seeds are essential when they are breeding.