The black-hooded sierra finch is a species of bird in the family Thraupidae.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs in the central Andes from southern Peru through western Bolivia and northern Chile into northwestern Argentina. It favors open, arid to semi-arid highland habitats including puna grasslands, rocky slopes, and scrubby ravines. Birds may descend to slightly lower elevations during colder months, especially to valleys with scattered shrubs. It is often seen near bofedales (high Andean wetlands) and along stony flats with sparse vegetation.
Altitude Range
3000–4800 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The black-hooded sierra finch is a high-Andean tanager that frequents open puna grasslands and rocky slopes. Males are readily recognized by their jet-black hood contrasting with a much paler body. It often forms small flocks outside the breeding season and may make short altitudinal movements in winter. Its sturdy, conical bill is adapted for cracking hard grass seeds.
Black hooded sierra finch, near San Pedro de Atacama, Chile
Temperament
wary but often approachable in open terrain
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, direct flights over open ground
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly, in pairs, or in small loose flocks outside the breeding season. Breeding pairs are territorial and nest low in shrubs, grass tussocks, or rocky crevices, building a cup-shaped nest. They are monogamous during the breeding period and both adults may attend the young.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Song is a light, tinkling series of metallic notes and short trills delivered from a perch or during brief song flights. Calls include dry chips and thin tsee notes used to keep contact in open habitats.
Plumage
Male shows a deep black hood and throat contrasting with pale gray upperparts and whitish to light gray underparts; some individuals show a faint buff wash on the flanks. Female is duller, brownish-gray overall with a less distinct or reduced hood and lightly streaked upperparts. Both sexes have a stout, conical bill typical of seed-eating finches.
Diet
Primarily consumes grass and herb seeds, which it cracks with its strong conical bill. During the breeding season it supplements this with small arthropods such as beetles and larvae. It also takes buds and shoots when available, especially in early growth stages. Foraging is mostly on or near the ground, picking items from soil, rocks, and low vegetation.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in open puna grasslands, stony slopes, field edges, and near bofedales where seed resources concentrate. Often uses areas with scattered shrubs and cushion plants that provide cover between foraging bouts.
