Black-capped Siskin
NameBlack-capped Siskin
Common NameBlack-capped Siskin
Scientific NameSpinus atriceps
FamilyFringillidae
Wingspan (cm)20
Length (cm)11.5
Weight (g)11.5
Plumage DetailsMales have a prominent glossy black cap, olive-green upperparts, and yellowish underparts. Their wings are dark with bright yellow wing bars and patches. Females are duller, with a less distinct or absent black cap and more streaking on the underparts.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include high-pitched, buzzy calls and trills, often given in flight or while foraging. The song is a rapid series of varied notes and trills.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the highlands of Guatemala and the adjacent highlands of Chiapas, Mexico.
Identifying Featuresblack cap (prominent in males), olive-green and yellow plumage, small size, conical bill, yellow wing bars
Description
The Black-capped Siskin is a small, active finch characterized by its distinctive black cap. It forages primarily for seeds in high-altitude coniferous and mixed forests, often seen clinging to thistles or conifer cones.
