Yellow-bridled Finch
NameYellow-bridled Finch
Common NameYellow-bridled Finch
Scientific NameMelanodera xanthogramma
FamilyThraupidae
Wingspan (cm)22.5
Length (cm)14.5
Weight (g)25
Plumage DetailsMales have a grey head with a prominent yellow supercilium (bridle) and a yellow throat patch, bordered by a black mask extending from the lores to the ear coverts and forming a bib. The upperparts are olive-grey, and underparts are paler grey with yellow flanks and vent. Wings and tail are dark with some yellowish edging. Females are duller with less distinct yellow markings and more streaking.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include high-pitched, thin 'tseee' or 'tseet' calls, often given in flight. The song is a series of varied, high-pitched notes.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsmountain, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the Andes of South America, specifically from central Chile and western Argentina south to Tierra del Fuego.
Identifying FeaturesYellow supercilium (bridle), Black mask and bib, Yellow throat patch, Greyish-green body plumage, Stocky finch shape, High-altitude Andean habitat
Description
This stocky finch is characterized by its greyish-green plumage and a distinctive yellow 'bridle' over the eye, contrasting with a black mask and throat patch. It is typically found foraging for seeds on the ground in high-altitude Andean grasslands and rocky slopes.
