Buff-bridled Inca Finch

Overview

The buff-bridled Inca finch (Incaspiza laeta) is a species of bird in the family Thraupidae. It is endemic to northwestern Peru and classified as Least Concern by the IUCN.

Identification

• 14.5 cm long with a long tail and slim, pointed bill.
• Adult males feature a mostly gray head, black lores and forehead mask, and a large pale buff spot on the lower cheek.
• Mantle, back, and scapulars are rufous, while the wings are mostly gray with browner edges.
• Both sexes possess dark brown irises, bright orange-yellow bills, and orange-yellow legs and feet.

Habitat

Found in northwestern Peru, specifically in the middle and upper watersheds of the Marañón River between 1,000 and 2,750 m elevation. It inhabits dry to arid woodlands characterised by Bombax trees, cacti, and thorn scrub.

Diet

The diet of the buff-bridled Inca finch has not been studied. It forages on the ground or in bushes and trees, usually singly or in pairs.

Did you know?

When annoyed, the bird emits a dry rasping scold similar to that of a wren (Troglodytidae).