Slaty Brushfinch

Overview

The slaty brushfinch (Atlapetes schistaceus) is a species of New World sparrow found from Venezuela to Ecuador. It is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, though its population size is believed to be decreasing despite no immediate threats being identified.

Identification

• Adults of the nominate subspecies have a rusty crown and nape with a mostly black face, including a whitish spot on the lores and a long white 'moustache' with a thin black stripe below it.
• Upperparts are dark gray with blackish tails and wings that feature white bases on the primaries and white marginal coverts appearing as a spot on the folded wing.
• Throat is whitish with dark speckles, while the breast, flanks, and undertail coverts are medium gray and the centre of the belly is whitish.
• All subspecies possess a dark reddish-brown iris, a blackish bill, and brown-gray legs and feet.

Habitat

This bird inhabits the shrubby edges and undergrowth of various humid to wet forest types, including elfin forest, cloudforest, and montane secondary forest. It occupies elevations between 2,000 and 3,800 m, with specific ranges varying by country, and occurs above tree line in patches of trees in Venezuela.

Diet

The slaty brushfinch feeds on a wide variety of insects, other small invertebrates, and fruits. It generally takes its food by gleaning and forages in the forest undergrowth up to about 5 m above the ground, though it occasionally reaches the canopy.

Did you know?

Unlike many other brushfinches that forage mainly near the ground, this species mostly forages in the forest undergrowth up to about 15 ft (5 m) above the ground.