The brown-capped rosy finch is a medium-sized finch endemic to North America.
Region
Central Rocky Mountains
Typical Environment
Breeds on alpine tundra, rocky cirques, talus slopes, and cliff faces primarily in Colorado, with limited occurrence into adjacent Wyoming and northern New Mexico. Nests are tucked in rock crevices, cavities, or under overhangs near persistent snowfields. After breeding, flocks forage along snow edges and wind-scoured ridges. In winter, birds move downslope to subalpine and montane valleys, commonly appearing at feeders in high-country communities. Habitat availability is closely tied to long-lasting snow and alpine vegetation.
Altitude Range
3000–4300 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This high-elevation finch is endemic to the central Rocky Mountains of the United States, breeding above treeline on windswept alpine tundra and cliffs. In winter it descends to lower elevations and often visits feeders in mountain towns. Its specialized alpine lifestyle makes it sensitive to warming temperatures and shrinking snowfields.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
strong flier with rapid, direct wingbeats
Social Behavior
Breeds in loose colonies or scattered pairs on cliffs and rocky ledges. Nests are placed in crevices or holes, lined with fine grasses and feathers. Both parents feed the young, and post-breeding flocks gather to forage along snowfields. Winter flocks may mix with other finches around food sources.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Song is a thin, tinkling warble with delicate, rolling notes. Calls include sharp chee or chew chips and soft twittering in flight.
Plumage
Overall brown with a distinct brown cap and dusky body, washed with rosy pink on the rump, wings, and underparts; males show brighter pink than females. Feathers often have pale edging, giving a slightly scaled look. Bill is short and conical, turning black in breeding season and yellowish in winter.
Diet
Primarily consumes seeds of alpine grasses and forbs, plus buds and small plant matter. During the breeding season, it supplements with insects such as flies, beetles, and caterpillars for protein. In winter it relies heavily on windblown seeds, weed seeds, and spilled grains, readily visiting feeders for millet and sunflower chips.
Preferred Environment
Forages on the ground along melting snow edges, wind-scoured ridges, talus slopes, and alpine meadows. In winter it feeds in open montane areas, around human settlements, and at feeders near tree line.
