The cinnamon warbling finch is a species of bird in the family Thraupidae. It is endemic to Argentina.
Region
Southern Andes and Monte Desert
Typical Environment
Occurs in arid and semi-arid shrublands, especially Monte desert scrub with jarilla (Larrea), thorny thickets, and open Prosopis woodlands. It uses rocky foothill slopes, dry valleys, and shrub-steppe with scattered grasses. The species also frequents field margins, fallow lots, and roadside hedgerows near rural settlements when cover is available. It typically keeps close to dense bushes, making short flights between patches of vegetation.
Altitude Range
400–2400 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The cinnamon warbling finch is a small tanager with warm rufous tones that blends well into Argentina’s arid scrub. It forages low in shrubs and on the ground, flicking its tail as it moves between cover. Its pleasant, bubbling warble carries at dawn and dusk during the breeding season. Habitat loss from overgrazing and shrub clearing can affect local densities, but the species remains generally common where suitable scrub persists.
Temperament
shy and retiring
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between bushes
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, sometimes in small family groups after breeding. Builds a small cup nest low in dense shrubs. Both parents are involved in provisioning nestlings. Outside the breeding season it may loosely associate with mixed-species flocks in scrubby habitats.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A sweet, fluid warble of bright, melodious phrases delivered from a shrub top or low perch. Calls include thin chips and soft trills used to maintain contact in cover.
