Rufous-backed Inca Finch

Overview

The rufous-backed Inca finch (Incaspiza personata) is a species of bird in the family Thraupidae, the tanagers and allies. It is endemic to north-central Peru and is currently classified as a species of Least Concern by the IUCN.

Identification

• Length 16.5 to 18 cm, with a long tail and a slim pointed, bright yellow bill.
• Mostly grey head with a brown cast on the nape, featuring blackish lores, a blackish mask, and a blackish throat.
• Rufous upperparts that are somewhat greyer on the rump; wings are mostly rufous with grey outer median and greater coverts.
• Song is described as a weak, high 'tisew-ti’TSWEE?', with calls consisting of high 'tseet' notes.

Habitat

Found in north-central Peru in the upper valley of the Marañón River and on the western slope of the Andes, ranging between 2,300 and 4,000 m in elevation. It inhabits dry slopes containing cacti, agave, and the large bromeliad Puya raimondii.

Diet

The specific diet has not been studied, though the species forages on the ground, typically singly or in pairs.