Black-chinned Siskin
NameBlack-chinned Siskin
Common NameBlack-chinned Siskin
Scientific NameSpinus barbatus
FamilyFringillidae
Wingspan (cm)21
Length (cm)13
Weight (g)13.5
Plumage DetailsMales display a prominent black cap extending to the chin and throat, bright yellow underparts, and an olive-green back. The wings and tail are dark with yellow markings. Females are duller, lacking the extensive black cap and having more streaking on their yellowish-green plumage.
Vocalization / CallTheir vocalizations include a varied series of trills, twitters, and buzzy notes, often incorporating imitations. The song is a lively, rapid succession of high-pitched, often metallic-sounding notes.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeNative to South America, primarily found in the Andes from central Chile and Argentina north to Bolivia, and also in parts of Uruguay and southern Brazil.
Identifying FeaturesBlack cap and chin (males), Bright yellow underparts, Olive-green back, Small, conical bill, Yellow wing patches (visible in flight or on folded wing)
Description
A small, vibrant finch, the male Black-chinned Siskin is easily identified by its striking black cap and chin contrasting with bright yellow underparts. They are active and social birds, often found foraging for seeds in open woodlands and shrublands.
