The Black-and-white mannikin is a small waxbill with a strong bill and short tail. It occurs in large parts of Africa south of the Sahara. The name suggests that it would be black and white, but this only applies to certain geographical areas. The plumage differs greatly depending on where the species is found. In central and western Africa the name is correct, but in southeastern Africa it has a completely different appearance, with a rusty brown back, as in the picture. On some specimens, like the bird in the picture, you can also guess a green shoulder patch, which I have not seen described in the literature.