Carpodacus waltoni
The Pink-rumped Rosefinch, *Carpodacus waltoni*, is a captivating and robust passerine inhabiting the high-altitude landscapes of the Himalayas and central China. Measuring approximately 14-15 cm (5.5-6 inches) in length, this medium-sized finch is most easily identified by the male's striking plumage: a deep crimson to pinkish-red head and mantle, beautifully contrasted by a vivid, almost strawberry-red rump. Its underparts are a duller pink, often with some streaking, while wings and tail a...
This species primarily inhabits high-altitude alpine meadows, rocky slopes, and open scrubland, often found above 3,500 meters (11,500 feet) during the breeding season. In winter, it descends to slightly lower, but still elevated, subalpine zones.
The Pink-rumped Rosefinch's diet primarily consists of small seeds from various alpine plants, along with buds and occasionally small invertebrates, foraged by gleaning from the ground and low vegetation.
Outside the breeding season, Pink-rumped Rosefinches are typically gregarious, forming small to medium-sized flocks that forage together on the ground or in low shrubs. Their daily activity is largely diurnal, focusing on foraging during daylight hours and seeking sheltered roosts among rocks or ...
The Pink-rumped Rosefinch is endemic to the high-altitude regions of the eastern Himalayas and the Tibetan Plateau. Its breeding range spans across significant portions of western and central China, including Tibet (Xizang), Qinghai, Sichuan, Gansu, and Yunnan provinces, extending westward into B...
Least Concern
- The male Pink-rumped Rosefinch boasts one of the most vibrant and distinctive rumps among all rosefinch species, a feature that directly inspires its common name. - Despite its small size, this species is incredibly resilient, thriving in extreme high-altitude environments often exceeding 3,500...