Black-headed Siskin
NameBlack-headed Siskin
Common NameBlack-headed Siskin
Scientific NameSpinus notatus
FamilyFringillidae
Wingspan (cm)21
Length (cm)10.5
Weight (g)10.5
Plumage DetailsMales have a distinctive glossy black head, throat, and upper breast. The rest of the body is bright yellow, with black wings featuring a prominent yellow bar and yellow edges on the flight feathers. The tail is black with yellow bases to the outer feathers. Females are duller with a less extensive black cap and more streaking.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include high-pitched, buzzing, or trilling notes, often described as 'tsee-tsee-tsee' or 'swee-swee-swee'. The song is a rapid, varied series of trills and twitters.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the highlands of southern Mexico and northern Central America, including Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras.
Identifying Featuresblack head, bright yellow body, yellow wing bar, small size, conical bill
Description
This small, striking finch is characterized by its contrasting glossy black head and vibrant yellow body. It is typically found in montane pine-oak and cloud forests, where it forages for seeds.
