Serinus alario (endemic)

Much smaller than a Cape Sparrow and far more brightly coloured, this small canary is a locally common nomad in Karoo scrub. Although some authorities treat it as conspecific with the Damara canary, it is visibly different; lacking the white facial markings of this similar looking canary.

I first recorded this striking endemic in June 2012, while birding around Beaufort West with Jaapie Claassen and his wife. I am still waiting for a decent photo opportunity.