The black-winged snowfinch or Adams's snowfinch, is a species of bird in the sparrow family.
Region
Tibetan Plateau and northern Himalayas
Typical Environment
Found across the high, open country of the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau and adjoining uplands in western China, with occurrences extending into Ladakh and nearby Himalayan fringes. It favors barren steppe, alpine meadows, stony plains, and scree near snowline. The species is frequently seen around human settlements at altitude, including grazing areas and stone structures. Breeding occurs in natural crevices, holes, and mammal burrows. Local movements follow weather and food availability, but it largely remains within the high plateau.
Altitude Range
3000–5500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also known as Adams's snowfinch, this species is a high-altitude passerine of the Tibetan Plateau and adjacent ranges. It often nests in burrows, including abandoned pika holes, and readily forages around yak herder camps and alpine villages. In summer it shifts toward insect prey to feed nestlings, while in winter it relies more on seeds.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
strong, direct flight with rapid wingbeats; low bounding over open ground
Social Behavior
Often seen in pairs or small flocks, especially outside the breeding season. Nests in burrows, crevices, and walls, sometimes colonially, lining chambers with grasses and hair. Pairs are monogamous during the breeding season and defend the immediate nest area while foraging communally nearby.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of thin, twittering trills and chirps, delivered from rocks or during short display flights. Calls include sharp, buzzy notes and soft contact chips used to keep flocks coordinated.
Plumage
Pale sandy-brown to gray-brown upperparts with clean whitish underparts; contrasting dark wings with bold white patches. Tail is dark with white outer feathers; overall crisp, high-contrast patterning in flight.
Diet
Feeds on a mix of alpine grass and forb seeds, small insects, and other invertebrates. During the breeding season, it takes more insects such as beetles, flies, and caterpillars to provision young. In colder months, it shifts to seeds and plant material gleaned from sparse vegetation and disturbed ground.
Preferred Environment
Forages mainly on the ground in open alpine meadows, steppe, and stony flats. Frequently searches around livestock pens, paths, and yak dung where insects concentrate. Uses rocks and low walls as vantage points while scanning for food.
