Mycerobas melanozanthos
The Spot-winged Grosbeak (*Mycerobas melanozanthos*) is a striking, large finch within the Fringillidae family, distinguished by its robust build and vivid coloration. Males are particularly eye-catching, sporting a glossy black head, back, and breast, contrasting sharply with a brilliant yellow belly, rump, and broad yellow wing-patches, further accented by a distinctive white spot on the tertials. Measuring approximately 22-24 cm (8.7-9.4 inches) in length and weighing 69-72 grams (2.4-2.5 ...
This species primarily inhabits high-altitude coniferous and mixed coniferous-deciduous forests, often found in association with rhododendron thickets at elevations typically between 2,500 to 4,000 meters.
Their diet primarily consists of large seeds, especially those from conifers, supplemented with buds, berries, and some insects.
Spot-winged Grosbeaks are diurnal birds, often observed foraging high in the canopy of trees or along forest edges. Their powerful, conical bill is a specialized tool, expertly employed to crack open tough seeds, extract buds, and glean berries, though they also consume some insects. Outside the ...
The Spot-winged Grosbeak is endemic to the high-altitude regions of Asia, primarily distributed across the Himalayas and parts of Southeast Asia. Its breeding range extends from northern Pakistan eastward through the Himalayan nations of India (including Uttarakhand, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh), N...
Least Concern
- The Spot-winged Grosbeak is one of the largest finches in Asia, with its robust build adapted for high-altitude environments. - Its scientific name, *Mycerobas melanozanthos*, directly translates from Greek as 'black and yellow,' perfectly describing the male's striking plumage. - They are expe...