Gray-hooded Sierra-Finch
NameGray-hooded Sierra-Finch
Common NameGray-hooded Sierra-Finch
Scientific NamePhrygilus gayi
FamilyThraupidae
Wingspan (cm)25
Length (cm)15.5
Weight (g)25
Plumage DetailsMales have a distinctive slate-gray hood covering the head and upper breast, contrasting sharply with bright yellow underparts. The back and wings are grayish with darker streaking on the flight feathers. Females are duller, with a brownish-gray head and duller yellow underparts, often with streaking.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of high-pitched, clear whistles or trills, often simple and repetitive, sometimes described as a 'tseet' or 'swee-swee-swee'.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsmountain, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the Andes Mountains of South America, specifically in central Chile and western Argentina.
Identifying FeaturesGray hood, Bright yellow underparts (male), Conical bill, Ground-dwelling behavior, High-altitude habitat
Description
This robust finch is characterized by its striking gray hood and bright yellow underparts, making it easily identifiable. It is typically found foraging on the ground in arid, high-altitude environments of the Andes, often in small flocks.
