Iago Sparrow

Description:

This is one for the upcoming Valentine's Day. This male Iago Sparrow (pic 1) seems to be looking up to his young beloved (pic 2), holding an hibiscus flower to try to impress her. I found these birds during my trip to Cape Verde where they can be found. Females and young birds have brown plumage with black marks above, and a dull grey underside, and are distinguished from other species of sparrow by their large, distinct supercilium. Males have a brighter underside and bold black and chestnut stripes on their head. It is a smaller species of sparrow.

Habitat:

This species is endemic to the islands of Cape Verde, except for Fogo island. The Iago Sparrow occurs in most habitats available in its range, such as lava plains, rocky hills and gorges.