Idiopsar erythronotus
The White-throated Sierra Finch (Idiopsar erythronotus) is a striking high-altitude specialist, measuring approximately 16-18 cm (6.3-7.1 in) in length and weighing 25-35 grams (0.9-1.2 oz). Males are particularly distinctive, boasting a brilliant white throat and upper breast contrasting sharply with a slate-grey head and lower breast, and a rich, rufous-chestnut back and rump. Their wings and tail are blackish with noticeable white wing-bars and outer tail feathers, serving as key identific...
Found primarily in high-altitude puna and paramo grasslands, rocky slopes, and arid montane scrub, typically above 3,000 meters (9,800 feet) in the Andes.
Feeds predominantly on small seeds and invertebrates, foraging by gleaning from the ground among sparse high-altitude vegetation.
White-throated Sierra Finches are diurnal, often observed singly or in small groups, particularly outside the breeding season when they may form mixed flocks with other sierra-finches. They are primarily ground foragers, meticulously hopping and gleaning for seeds and insects among sparse vegetat...
The White-throated Sierra Finch is endemic to the high Andes of South America, with a disjunct distribution. The northern subspecies, *Idiopsar erythronotus erythronotus*, primarily inhabits the puna zones of southern Peru and western Bolivia. The southern subspecies, *Idiopsar erythronotus puna*...
Least Concern
- The White-throated Sierra Finch can be found at staggering elevations, sometimes exceeding 5,000 meters (over 16,000 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest-dwelling passerines. - Its vivid rufous back is a key field mark that distinguishes it from other grey-backed sierra-finches, ...