The bay-crowned brushfinch is a species of bird in the family Passerellidae.
Region
Central Andes
Typical Environment
Found in humid montane and cloud forests, forest edges, and dense secondary growth, especially in areas with Chusquea bamboo and thick tangles. It prefers shrubby ravines, landslides, and regenerating patches where cover is abundant. The species keeps close to the ground or mid-understory, moving methodically through foliage. It tolerates some habitat disturbance and can persist along roadsides and forest margins provided dense cover remains.
Altitude Range
1000–3200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The bay-crowned brushfinch is a skulking understory sparrow of Andean cloud forests, named for its warm ‘bay’ (rufous) crown. It often joins mixed-species flocks, staying low in dense shrubbery and bamboo. Subtle variation in face pattern and crown extent occurs across its range. Its persistent, clear whistles carry surprisingly well through thick vegetation.
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or small family groups that keep contact calls while moving through dense cover. Frequently associates with mixed-species flocks in the understory. Nests are cup-shaped and placed low in shrubs or bamboo, with both parents involved in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of clear, whistled phrases delivered from concealed perches, often with sweet, piping notes. Calls include sharp chips and soft contact notes used to maintain pair cohesion. The song carries through the forest despite the bird’s secretive habits.
Plumage
Olive upperparts with grayish underparts and a contrasting rufous (bay) crown; face typically dark with a cleaner throat. Wings and tail are dusky with olive edging; underparts may show a subtle olive wash along the flanks.
Diet
Omnivorous, taking insects and other small invertebrates gleaned from leaves and twigs. Also consumes seeds, small fruits, and berries, especially when insect prey is less abundant. Forages methodically, hopping and flicking leaves to expose prey. Will occasionally follow edges of trails and landslides where food is easier to find.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in the understory and lower mid-story of humid montane forest, dense second growth, and bamboo thickets. Often works along forest margins and gaps where sunlight promotes fruiting shrubs and insect activity.
