The cinereous finch is a species of South American bird in the tanager family Thraupidae. It is the only member of the genus Piezorina. It is found in arid coastal regions of northern Peru, with a single record, presumably a straying bird, from immediately adjacent Ecuador.
Region
Northern coastal Peru (Tumbes–Piura–Lambayeque) with rare strays to adjacent Ecuador
Typical Environment
Occurs in arid coastal plains, desert scrub, and dry Prosopis (algarrobo) woodland. Uses cactus scrub, riverine thickets, edges of subsistence fields, and degraded scrub where shrubs and scattered trees remain. Often near wash bottoms and dunes where seed-producing herbs and shrubs persist after seasonal moisture. Tolerates human-modified dry habitats if dense thorny cover and seed resources are present.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 700 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The cinereous finch is the sole member of the genus Piezorina, a drab but distinctive tanager adapted to Peru’s arid coastal deserts. It favors algarrobo (Prosopis) groves and thorn-scrub, where it forages low and on the ground. Its plain, ashy plumage makes it easy to overlook despite being locally fairly common. Conservation of dry forest and desert scrub is important for the species’ long-term stability.
Temperament
wary but relatively calm, often unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats in low, direct flights between shrubs
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small loose groups; forms small flocks outside the breeding season. Likely monogamous, nesting low in shrubs or small trees with a cup nest. Forages quietly on or near the ground, often under shrub cover.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a simple finch-like series of thin trills and twitters delivered from a low perch. Calls are dry, metallic chips and soft tseet notes used to maintain contact in scrub.
