The Arabian serin or olive-rumped serin, is a species of finch in the family Fringillidae. It is native to the Sarawat Mountains of western Saudi Arabia and Yemen. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical dry forest and subtropical or tropical dry shrubland.
Region
Southwest Arabian Peninsula
Typical Environment
Occurs along the Sarawat Mountains from western Saudi Arabia south into Yemen. It favors montane juniper and acacia woodlands, rocky slopes, wadis, and nearby terraced agriculture. Birds often use shrub edges and open patches for feeding while retreating to trees and cliffs for roosting and nesting. The species is localized but can be fairly common where suitable habitat persists.
Altitude Range
1200–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Also called the olive-rumped serin, this small finch is confined to the highlands of western Saudi Arabia and Yemen. It frequents juniper woodlands and terraced fields, often forming small flocks outside the breeding season. The species was formerly placed in the genus Serinus but is now in Crithagra based on genetic studies.
Temperament
social and alert
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with undulating hops between perches
Social Behavior
Often in pairs during breeding and small flocks otherwise, sometimes joining mixed finch groups. Nests are compact cups placed in shrubs or small trees, using grasses and plant fibers. Likely monogamous, with both parents attending the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A bright, twittering series of trills and tinkling notes delivered from exposed perches. Calls include thin seee and rapid chirps used to keep contact in flocks.
