Serinus syriacus
The Syrian Serin, *Serinus syriacus*, is a strikingly pale and delicate finch, measuring approximately 12-14 cm in length with a wingspan of 21-23 cm and weighing 12-18g. Its plumage is characterized by a soft, sandy-buff or pale yellow ground color, contrasting with fine grey streaking on the back and flanks, and notably bright white wing bars formed by pale-edged tertials and coverts. Distinctive field marks include its rather plain face, lacking strong malar stripes or supercilia, and a pa...
This species primarily inhabits high-altitude, rocky slopes, montane steppes, and open juniper or pine woodlands, often found near permanent water sources. It breeds at elevations typically above 1,000 meters.
Their diet consists predominantly of small seeds from various grasses, thistles, and other herbaceous plants, supplemented with a small number of insects, especially during the breeding season.
Syrian Serins are diurnal birds, active from dawn to dusk, often foraging in small flocks outside the breeding season and roosting communally in dense vegetation. Their foraging strategy involves gleaning seeds from the ground, low vegetation, and occasionally acrobatically from the seed heads of...
The Syrian Serin's breeding range is restricted to the mountainous regions of the Levant and Turkey. Key breeding areas include the Anti-Lebanon mountains, Mount Hermon in Syria, Lebanon, and Israel, and various ranges across eastern and southern Turkey. It also breeds in northern Jordan. During ...
Near Threatened
- The Syrian Serin is one of the palest members of the *Serinus* genus, making it distinctive among its relatives. - It is well-adapted to harsh, high-altitude environments, breeding exclusively in mountainous regions. - Males are known for their beautiful, varied, and melodious song, often deliv...