Fody species are found on many islands in the Indian Ocean, with species endemic to Madagascar, Comores, Mauritius, Rodrigues, Aldabra and the granitic Seychelles. The Madagascar Fody or Kardinal in Creole, is a widespread introduced land bird. This is probably the most colourful bird, which is why it has been introduced to many places. In the breeding season (September to April), male birds are bright orange-red with dark wings and black face masks. Outside the breeding season, males lose much of their bright colouring, and become mid-brown although usually retain some red patches. In a few birds, the red colouration is replaced by bright yellow. Females are brown all year round. Although it is found on all the islands where the endemic Seychelles Fody or Toktok occurs, the two species do not seem to compete. This bird prefers open places where it feeds mainly on seeds, while the toktok likes forests, feeding mainly on insects. The Madagascar Fody woven hanging nest is constructed using grasses, coconut fibre and other materials. In exceptional circumstances, the Madagascar Fody may interbreed with the endemic Seychelles Fody.
Scientific Name: Foudia madagascariensis
Creole name: Kardinal or Sren or Tisren
Wingspan: 17-19cm.
Population in Seychelles: Unknown
World Distribution: Madagascar (where endemic), Mauritius, Rodrigues, Seychelles (where introduced).
Distribution in Seychelles: Throughout. This is the most widespread land bird in Seychelles, breeding even on tiny, remote islands.
Habitat: Gardens, plantations, scrub, grassland.
Nests: Domed, woven nests in coconut palms, trees or shrubs.
Eggs: 2 – 5, blue.
Diet: Mainly seeds, also insects (especially in breeding season).
Identification: In breeding season, the male is scarlet all over (a few are bright yellow). Out of breeding season, brown with red patches. Females are always brown.
See more
Species Fact Sheet at BirdLife Data Zone
(Photo credit: Alex Taylor)