The band-tailed sierra finch is a species of bird in the family Thraupidae and is found in Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Ecuador, and Peru. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical dry shrubland and subtropical or tropical high-altitude shrubland.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs from Ecuador and Peru south through Bolivia to northern and central Chile and northwestern Argentina. It favors arid and semi-arid shrublands, dry intermontane valleys, puna edges, and rocky slopes with scattered bushes. The species also uses fallow fields and open agricultural margins, especially in winter. It typically keeps close to low shrubs and ground cover where it feeds and takes cover.
Altitude Range
1000–4000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This tanager-like finch shows a distinctive pale band across the tail that flashes in flight, a key field mark in open Andean scrub. It generally forages on or near the ground, often in small groups outside the breeding season. Populations are mostly resident but can make short altitudinal movements following food availability.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with bounding undulations
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs during the breeding season and in small loose flocks at other times. Nests are cup-shaped and placed low in shrubs or among rocks; the female incubates while both parents feed the young. Territoriality is moderate around nest sites but relaxed in nonbreeding flocks.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Song is a simple, twittering series of trills and chirps delivered from a shrub top or low perch. Calls include sharp tsip notes used to keep contact within small groups.
