The Española cactus finch, is a species of bird in the tanager family Thraupidae. It is one of Darwin's finches, and is endemic to the Galápagos islands, where it is restricted to Española, Genovesa, and the Darwin and Wolf Islands. This rather dark bird resembles the smaller and finer-beaked common cactus finch, but the two species do not co-inhabit any island.
Region
Galápagos Islands
Typical Environment
Occurs in arid lowland zones dominated by prickly pear cactus on Española, Genovesa, Darwin, and Wolf Islands. It frequents coastal scrub, open lava fields with scattered shrubs, and dense Opuntia stands. Nests are placed in shrubs or cactus, often near reliable food sources. Outside breeding, it forages across open ground and low vegetation, tracking cactus phenology.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 200 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
One of Darwin’s finches, it has a notably deep, pointed bill adapted to feed on prickly pear (Opuntia) flowers, nectar, fruits, and seeds. It can act as a pollinator when dusted with cactus pollen and switches to more insect prey during wet seasons. This species does not co-occur with the common cactus finch on the same islands, reducing direct competition. Like many Galápagos birds, it shows little fear of humans.
Temperament
tame and moderately territorial
Flight Pattern
short, rapid wingbeats with low, direct flights
Social Behavior
Typically forms small groups around productive cactus stands outside the breeding season. Breeding is usually monogamous; males may build several nest structures before the female selects one. Nests are cup-shaped and placed in shrubs or cactus. Territorial displays and songs are most active at the start of the rainy season.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Male song is a short series of buzzy trills and sharp, metallic notes delivered from exposed perches. Calls include dry chips and tweeps used for contact within foraging groups.
Plumage
Males are largely uniform sooty-black; females are brown with heavy streaking above and below and a paler underside. Both sexes have a very deep, long, and pointed conical bill suited to cactus feeding. Feathers appear plain without bold wingbars or patches.
Diet
Feeds extensively on Opuntia flowers, nectar, fruit pulp, and seeds, using its strong bill to handle spiny material. Supplements its diet with insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates, especially during the wet season and when feeding young. Will glean arthropods from cactus pads and low shrubs and occasionally pick fallen seeds from the ground.
Preferred Environment
Forages in arid scrub and lava fields where prickly pear cacti are abundant. Often concentrates activity around flowering or fruiting cactus patches and adjacent shrubs. Will also feed along coastal edges where vegetation is sparse.
