The Madagascar Fody Foudia madagascariensis, sometimes known as the Red Cardinal Fody or Common Fody is a small bird native to Madagascar.

The Madagascar Fody is about 5 inches in length and weighs 14-19 grams. The male of the species is bright red with black markings around each eye. Its wings and tail are olive-brown. The female fody's upper body is olive-brown with a greyish-brown underbody.

It is a common bird found in forest clearings, grasslands and cultivated areas. In Madagascar it is regarded as a pest to rice cultivation. Although it is native to Madagascar, it has been introduced to other areas of the Indian Ocean, included the Amirantes, Comoros, Seychelles, Mauritius and Réunion.

Gallery

Male

Male

Female

External links Wikimedia Commons has media related to: Foudia madagascariensis

• Description of Behavioural & Reproductive Habits of the Madagascar Fody
• Photo of a Madagascar Fody

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