Iringa and Njombe highlands, in southern Tanzania.
Rarity Status
Currently this species is not classified as a rarity in this country OR information has not been updated.
Population
Estimated population is unknown (2010).
Status LC
Habitat destruction and degradation through clearance for agriculture, replacement with plantations, and selective cutting for timber and firewood, are the main threats.
For more information see BirdLife International Species Factsheet.
Kipengere Seedeater (Crithagra melanochroa) [XC620476]
by Rob Gordijn from Chervemba-camp_2130-2160m, Ndundulu Forest, Udzungwa Mts, Tanzania (call)
Kipengere Seedeater (Crithagra melanochroa) [XC753313]
by Rob Gordijn from Ridge below Luala camp area, Tanzania (song)
Subspecies
No subspecies.
Thick-billed Seedeater (Crithagra burtoni) and Kipengere Seedeater (Crithagra melanochroa) (Sibley and Monroe 1990, 1993) are retained as separate species contra Dowsett and Forbes-Watson (1993) who include melanochrous as a subspecies of Thick-billed Seedeater (Crithagra burtoni).
Has previously been placed in genus Crithagra, and more recent mitochondrial DNA analysis indicates distant relationship with present African congeners, but detailed consideration of all taxa in current genus is required before full generic revision can be made. Sometimes thought to form a superspecies with Thick-billed Seedeater (Crithagra burtoni) and Principe Seedeater (Crithagra rufobrunnea). Has been treated as conspecific with Thick-billed Seedeater (Crithagra burtoni), but differs morphologically and vocally. Size and plumage suggest possible closer relationship with Streaky Seedeater (Crithagra striolata), but detailed DNA analysis needed.
BirdLife International Species Factsheet