Moustached Brushfinch
NameMoustached Brushfinch
Common NameMoustached Brushfinch
Scientific NameAtlapetes albofrenatus
FamilyPasserellidae
Wingspan (cm)26
Length (cm)17
Weight (g)30
Plumage DetailsThe Moustached Brushfinch has a black head with a broad, bright white malar stripe extending from the bill base, resembling a moustache. The crown is a contrasting rufous-chestnut. Its upperparts are olive-green, and the underparts are yellowish-olive, becoming paler on the belly. The bill is black, and the eyes are dark.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a series of sharp, high-pitched 'chip' notes, often delivered rapidly. It also produces a more complex, varied song that can be described as a rapid, chattering series of whistles and trills.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThe Moustached Brushfinch is found in the Andes mountain range, specifically in eastern Colombia (from southern Santander south to Cundinamarca and Meta) and western Venezuela (Táchira, Mérida, and Trujillo).
Identifying FeaturesBlack head with prominent white malar stripe, Rufous-chestnut crown, Olive-green upperparts and yellowish-olive underparts, Found in montane forest undergrowth
Description
This striking brushfinch is characterized by its distinctive black head, prominent white malar stripe, and rufous crown. It typically forages in the dense undergrowth and lower to mid-story of humid montane forests, often in pairs or small groups.
