Crithagra albogularis
The White-throated Canary is a bird of heathland and arid scrub that feeds on fruit, seeds and insects. They’re usually seen alone or in pairs, with small flocks of up to 8 individuals forming from time to time and congregating in their dozens at water points. They will also occasionally form mixed groups with other species of canary sharing the same habitat. It would appear that they need ready access to water and they’ll often cover considerable distances to drink during the heat of the day.
Female White-throated Canaries build cup-shaped nests in small trees or shrubs and she also takes sole responsibility for the 2-3 week incubation period, but the clutch of 2-5 chicks are cared for by both parents after hatching. The chicks leave the nest when they’re almost 3 weeks old. These canaries may breed at any time of the year, though there is a distinct peak in nesting activity during the months of spring. Adults weigh around 27g and measure about 15cm in length.
In South Africa the White-throated Canary is found in the Eastern, Northern and Western Cape Provinces as well as the southwestern half of the Free State. It also occurs widely in Namibia and marginally extends into Angola, Botswana and Lesotho. The IUCN evaluates the species as being of least concern though invasive exotic plants threaten their preferred habitat in several parts of especially the Western Cape.
de Wets Wild 
Lovely clear photos of an appealing little bird – I like its white ‘eye-brow’. I have not focused on this bird before so will need to look out for it next time I am in its part of the country.
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I think I’ve seen them more regularly than I might think I have, because of their resemblance to female Cape Sparrows, especially at a quick glance.
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I know what you mean. I confess I get a bit lazy distinguishing between some of the similar little birds.
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It’s not yellow, but seems to sing well.
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I agree Hien, not a bad song but at least not one that will get them captured for the pet trade either.
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Canary is synonymous with personality. At least in my household Dries. I believe they are known as feathered brats. It is nice to be able to see this particular species.
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Your comment immediately made me think of Tweety, Tracy! Now there’s a tattle-taley brat of a canary!
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I loved Tweety when I was a child. 🙂
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I rooted for Sylvester. And Wile E. Coyote…
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I never did, but I did feel sorry for them. Haha.
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I am pleased that you are highlighting such a drab – yet beautiful in its own way – bird!
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Thank you, Anne, They look quite dignified, I think.
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Hoe weet jy dis n witkeelkanarie? Dis baie interessant dat die wyfie die eiers uitbroei en beide ouers hul versorg. Drie weke na hul uitgebroei het is nogal vinnig om op hul eie verder te gaan. Wonderlik hoe die natuur werk.
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Gemeet volgens kanariestandaarde is hulle regtig vaal, Ineke, en die enigste uitstaande kenmerk – as hulle reg sit bygese – is die wit aan die keeltjie.
Maar dat hulle baie interessant is, is beslis. Veral hoe vinnig hul broeiperiode verloop – hoe gouer hulle die taak afhandel hoe kleiner is die kans dat die eiers of kuikens ontdek en opgevreet word.
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Dis nog ‘n interessante punt hoekom dit so vinnig gaan. Sing hul ook soos kanaries of is hul meer stil van aard?
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Ek ken nie een van ons wilde kannaries wat so mooi sing as die hokvoels nie, maar hierdie een se wysie is beslis nie goor nie – jy kan hier gaan luister: https://www.xeno-canto.org/600650
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Dankie ek gaan luister
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Nice action shot there, Dries! Looks like a sweet little bird.
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Thank you very much, Lois! I hope their personalities aren’t as drab as their plumage…
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