Forest Canary

The forest canary is a small bird with a short, thick beak, measuring 11–13 cm in length and weighing 10-14 g. The male and female are identifiable by their differences in color. The feathers on the back and wings of the male are yellow with a slight green tint, while the female has a greenish-gray color with yellow on its underparts. Both the male and female have a black mask that trails from the forehead to the eyes, as well as being marked with multiple black streaks on their upper parts. The juvenile forest canary is similar in appearance to the female, with a dull olive hue.

The forest canary's main diet consists of seeds, fruits, and figs. Seeds like Panicum (Guinea grasses), Alyssum, and Passerina corymbosa (gonna) are commonly found in their diet. Forest canaries enjoy Penaea cneorum and Penaeaceae flowers. These birds enjoy Senecio (creeping groundsel) and Ptaeroxylon obliquum (Sneezewood) leaves. In addition to these, the forest canary will also eat insects. However, insects are usually consumed during the breeding season as a source of more protein. When searching for food, they will forage in small groups or pairs. They tend to forage in low areas, such as the ground or near bushes and flowers. When eating, they will usually take cover to stay hidden.