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Yemen Serin, Yemen Seedeater

Crithagra menachensis (Serinus menachensis)

Geographical distribution and habitat

The Yemen Serin is one of the least strikingly colored and contrasting birds of the genus Crithagra. Overall grey-brown and finely streaked. The scientific secondary name is derived from 'Manakhah District', in Yemen. Crithagra menachensis lives in very dry areas with some scrub and scarce vegetation on rocky hills and mountains. These birds are seen looking for food on edges of more inhabited areas, like towns and villages. It is reported that the birds feed on low vegetation and on the ground like the seeds of Dock weeds (Rumex) millet and grass. Except in Yemen, there are also observations in other parts of the Middle East, like Oman, which is also part of the Arabian peninsula. In summer these birds live in small flocks, sometimes seen with Yemen linnets (Carduelis yemenensis)

Size: 12 cm (4.7 inch)

Description and subspecies

Sexes alike and there are no subspecies, so it is a monotypic species.

Details

It is notable that the birds shown in the Photo album on this site, usually have a black-gray beak color. The vocals are described as a blend of sounds that are also heard of Redpolls (Carduelis cabaret), Siskins (Carduelis spinus) and Linnets (Carduelis cannabina ssp). In nature, nests are found from September to December but also in March / April. Nests were found in holes and slits in the rocks and walls. The eggs are white. We do not know if the Yemen Serin has ever been imported to Europe, but we think it is not very likely.

(23-10-2019)