Yellow-bellied Siskin
NameYellow-bellied Siskin
Common NameYellow-bellied Siskin
Scientific NameSpinus xanthogastra
FamilyFringillidae
Wingspan (cm)19
Length (cm)10.5
Weight (g)11.5
Plumage DetailsAdult males have a glossy black head, nape, back, and wings, with bright yellow underparts, rump, and distinct yellow patches on the primaries and secondaries. The tail is black with yellow bases to the outer rectrices. Females are duller, with dusky olive-green upperparts and yellowish-green underparts, and less extensive yellow in the wings.
Vocalization / CallA typical siskin-like twittering song, often incorporating trills and buzzing notes. Calls include a sharp 'tsee' or 'swee' and a rapid 'chit-chit-chit'.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in disjunct populations in Central America (Costa Rica, Panama) and South America (Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia), typically in montane regions.
Identifying FeaturesStriking black and yellow plumage (especially males), Glossy black head and back, Bright yellow belly and rump, Prominent yellow wing patches, Small size, Conical finch bill
Description
This small finch is characterized by its striking black and yellow plumage, with males displaying a glossy black head and back contrasting with bright yellow underparts and prominent wing patches. It typically forages for seeds in montane forests and forest edges, often in small flocks.
