The Bolivian brushfinch or rufous-naped brushfinch is a species of bird in the family Passerellidae.
Region
Central Andes (Bolivia)
Typical Environment
Occurs on the eastern Andean slopes of Bolivia, especially in humid Yungas and cloud-forest regions. It frequents forest edges, second growth, shrubby ravines, and overgrown clearings, often near dense bamboo or Chusquea thickets. The species tolerates moderate habitat disturbance and can appear along hedgerows and riparian thickets. Typically forages close to the ground within dense cover, moving by short, quick hops.
Altitude Range
1500–3300 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also known as the rufous-naped brushfinch, this passerine belongs to the New World sparrow family Passerellidae. It favors dense undergrowth and edges of humid montane forests, where it forages low and often remains concealed. Pairs or family groups are commonly seen, and it may join mixed-species flocks. Its distinctive rufous nape patch helps separate it from similar Andean brushfinches.
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low over shrub layer
Social Behavior
Usually in pairs or small family groups, occasionally joining mixed-species flocks in the understory. Likely monogamous, with a cup nest placed low in dense vegetation or shrubs. Territorial during breeding but more tolerant in non-breeding season.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A clear, sweet warble delivered from within cover, with short rising and falling phrases. Calls are sharp chips and thin tsee notes used to keep contact in dense foliage.
Plumage
Olive to olive-gray upperparts with a gray face and breast, contrasting with a distinct rufous patch on the crown/nape. Throat whitish to pale gray, underparts gray shading to buff on the belly and flanks. Wings and tail dusky-olive with subtle edging; overall appearance subdued except for the rufous nape.
Diet
Takes small insects and other arthropods gleaned from leaves, twigs, and the ground. Also eats seeds and small berries when available, shifting seasonally with fruiting cycles. Foraging is methodical, often involving flicking leaf litter and probing dense tangles.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in dense understory, forest edges, and secondary scrub, especially near bamboo thickets and along ravines. Will use semi-open areas with adequate shrub cover, including overgrown plantations and hedgerows.
