Black Siskin
NameBlack Siskin
Common NameBlack Siskin
Scientific NameSpinus atratus
FamilyFringillidae
Wingspan (cm)21.5
Length (cm)13.5
Weight (g)17.5
Plumage DetailsAdult males are glossy black over the head and body, with prominent bright yellow patches on the flight feathers (forming a wing bar and patch) and undertail coverts. The bill is conical and dark, and the eyes are dark. Females are similar but duller, with a more sooty-black appearance and less extensive yellow.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include high-pitched, often trilling or buzzing notes, characteristic of siskins, such as 'swee-swee' or 'tsee-tsee' calls. They also have a rapid, jumbled song.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsmountain, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Andes Mountains of South America, ranging from southern Peru through Bolivia, northern Chile, and northwestern Argentina.
Identifying Featurespredominantly black plumage, bright yellow wing patches, small size, conical bill, high-altitude Andean habitat
Description
This small finch is characterized by its striking black plumage contrasted with bright yellow patches on its wings and undertail. It inhabits high-altitude Andean environments, often foraging for seeds on rocky slopes and open grasslands.
