Dusky-headed Brushfinch

Overview

The dusky-headed brushfinch is a Near Threatened species of New World sparrow endemic to Colombia. It was formally described in 1914 and is currently classified as monotypic.

Identification

• Adults feature a mostly dusky olive head with a distinctive yellow 'moustache' and yellow throat.
• Underparts are predominantly yellow with an olive wash on the breast and flanks, while upperparts are olive-dusky with a slightly brighter olive rump.
• Measures 17 to 18 cm in length, possesses a black bill, reddish to deep brown iris, and dusky brown legs.
• Vocalisations include a springy, bouncy series of 'swee-see chipi' notes and a high 'seep' call.

Habitat

Restricted to the upper watershed of the Magdalena River in the Huila Department of southwestern Colombia. It occupies low dense shrubs at the edges and clearings of humid forest, secondary forest, and open areas like overgrown pastures between elevations of 1,500 and 2,400 m.

Diet

The specific diet has not been studied. The species typically forages in pairs or small groups, moving through dense foliage on the ground and up to about 6 m above it.

Did you know?

Although the bird is tolerant of some habitat degradation, the head of the Magdalena valley has become unsuitable for it due to the extensive establishment of coffee, banana, and sugarcane plantations.