Carpodacus grandis
Blyth's Rosefinch, *Carpodacus grandis*, is a striking, robust finch of the high Himalayas, often considered a subspecies of the Streaked Rosefinch (*C. rubicilloides*) but recognized here for its distinct characteristics and range. Males are resplendent with a deep crimson-pink head, breast, and rump, contrasting with a heavily streaked brown back and darker wings edged with pink. Females are more subdued, presenting an olive-brown plumage extensively streaked on the underparts, often with a...
This species primarily inhabits high-altitude alpine scrub, rocky slopes, and open meadows, typically found above the tree line. It thrives in elevations ranging from 3,000 to over 5,000 meters during the breeding season.
Its diet primarily consists of seeds, buds, and fresh shoots from alpine vegetation, supplemented with berries and small invertebrates, especially during the breeding season. Foraging occurs mainly on the ground by gleaning.
Blyth's Rosefinch is a diurnal species, often observed foraging actively on the ground, especially during morning and late afternoon hours, retreating to sheltered roosts in rocky crevices or dense scrub during the night. Its foraging strategy mainly involves picking seeds, buds, and young shoots...
Blyth's Rosefinch is endemic to the high-altitude regions of Central and Western Asia, primarily inhabiting the majestic Himalayan mountain range and its associated spurs. Its extensive breeding range stretches from eastern Afghanistan eastward through Pakistan's Gilgit-Baltistan region, across n...
Least Concern
- One of the highest-dwelling passerines in the Himalayas, regularly found at elevations exceeding 5,000 meters. - Its scientific name, *grandis*, refers to its relatively large size compared to other rosefinches. - The intensity of the male's crimson plumage is often an indicator of age and fitn...