Common Cactus-Finch
NameCommon Cactus-Finch
Common NameCommon Cactus-Finch
Scientific NameGeospiza scandens
FamilyThraupidae
Wingspan (cm)21
Length (cm)13
Weight (g)17
Plumage DetailsAdult males are uniformly sooty black over their entire body. Females and immatures have streaky brown upperparts and paler, streaky underparts. The bill is dark in breeding males and horn-colored in females and non-breeding males.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations typically consist of a simple, repetitive series of notes, often described as a 'chup-chup-chup' or a buzzing 'tzzzzzz'.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsdesert
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Galápagos Islands, found on several islands including Santa Cruz, Española, Fernandina, Isabela, Pinta, and Marchena, primarily in arid zones with Opuntia cacti.
Identifying FeaturesLong, pointed bill, Association with Opuntia cacti, Sooty black plumage (males), Streaky brown plumage (females/immatures), Small finch size
Description
This small Darwin's finch is characterized by its relatively long, pointed bill, adapted for feeding on Opuntia cacti. Males are entirely sooty black, while females and immatures are streaky brown. It is often observed foraging on cactus flowers and fruits in arid environments.
