The buff-bridled Inca finch is a species of bird in the family Thraupidae. It is endemic to Peru where its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical dry forests and subtropical or tropical high-altitude shrubland.
Region
Peruvian Andes
Typical Environment
Occupies arid intermontane valleys and foothill slopes with subtropical or tropical dry forest and high-altitude shrubland. Prefers thorny scrub, rocky ravines, cactus-dotted slopes, and edges of open woodland. Often occurs in mosaics of native scrub and lightly grazed or fallow fields. Uses dense shrubs for cover and moves to more open patches to feed.
Altitude Range
1200–2800 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Part of the Inca finch group, this species is confined to Peru’s dry inter-Andean valleys. Its name refers to the distinctive buff-colored 'bridle'—a facial pattern around the eye and malar area. It forages close to the ground in thorny scrub and rocky slopes and can persist in lightly modified habitats. Habitat loss remains a concern where dry forest and shrublands are cleared.
Temperament
skulking yet alert, often shy in dense scrub
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low bounding flights between shrubs
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups; forms loose mixed-species associations in the non-breeding season. Breeding pairs defend small territories in dense shrubland. Nests are cup-shaped and placed low in bushes or among rocks; both parents attend the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of clear, sweet whistles and short trills delivered from a semi-exposed perch within scrub. Calls include sharp metallic chips used to maintain contact in dense cover.
Plumage
Brown to rufous-brown upperparts with a grayish head and pale underparts washed buff on the flanks. Shows a neat buff facial 'bridle' including supercilium and malar area, contrasting with the gray face. Wings and tail often show warm rufous tones; underparts otherwise clean and lightly streaked or plain.
Diet
Takes a mix of grass and shrub seeds, small fruits, and a variety of arthropods. Gleans insects from foliage and ground litter and pecks seeds from weedy patches. Will opportunistically exploit seasonal seed flushes after rains. Young are often fed more protein-rich invertebrates.
Preferred Environment
Forages on or near the ground in thorn scrub, rocky slopes, and dry woodland edges. Frequently uses shrub bases, rock crevices, and cactus clusters for cover while feeding in adjacent open patches.
