Rhopospina alaudina
The Band-tailed Sierra Finch, Rhopospina alaudina, is a captivating and distinctive member of the Thraupidae family, often considered a New World sparrow relative due to its appearance and habits. Measuring approximately 14-16 cm (5.5-6.3 inches) in length and weighing 15-25 grams, this species is most easily identified by the striking white bands on its otherwise dark tail, particularly visible in flight or when perched. Males boast a handsome grey head with a prominent black mask extending ...
This species primarily inhabits open, often arid to semi-arid high-altitude grasslands, shrublands, and rocky slopes of the Andes, frequently near agricultural fields or puna zones, typically found between 2,000 and 4,500 meters (6,500-14,800 feet) elevation.
The diet of the Band-tailed Sierra Finch consists predominantly of seeds from various grasses and forbs found in its high-altitude habitat, supplemented with insects, especially during the breeding season to provide protein for their growing chicks. They forage primarily by ground-gleaning.
Band-tailed Sierra Finches are diurnal, spending their days actively foraging on the ground, often in small, loose flocks outside the breeding season that may number up to 30 individuals. Their foraging strategy involves gleaning seeds and insects directly from the ground or low vegetation, emplo...
The Band-tailed Sierra Finch boasts an extensive distribution across the high Andes of South America, stretching from extreme southern Colombia through Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile, and into northwestern Argentina. Its breeding range encompasses these high-altitude Andean environments, typically...
Least Concern
- The striking white bands on its tail are a key field mark, especially visible during its undulating flight or when the bird fans its tail. - Despite its 'finch' common name, genetic studies place the Band-tailed Sierra Finch firmly within the tanager family (Thraupidae), making it a 'tanager-fi...