The Genovesa 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, Ecuador, where it is restricted to Genovesa Island.
Region
Galápagos Islands
Typical Environment
Occurs only on Genovesa, a low, arid island dominated by Opuntia cactus stands, coastal scrub, and lava fields. It frequents cactus thickets, dry shrublands, and edges of open areas, often near colonies of seabirds where vegetation is sparse. Nesting and foraging are closely tied to the availability of Opuntia flowers and fruits. The species’ entire extent of occurrence is confined to this single island, making it vulnerable to habitat shifts and invasive species.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 100 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Genovesa cactus finch is one of Darwin’s finches, famous for illustrating adaptive radiation in the Galápagos. It has a particularly deep, powerful bill adapted to feeding on Opuntia cactus flowers, fruits, and seeds, as well as small invertebrates. Formerly treated as a subspecies of the Large Cactus Finch, it is now often recognized as a distinct species restricted to Genovesa Island. Its tameness is typical of Galápagos birds, but its tiny range makes it sensitive to ecological change.
Temperament
social and relatively tame
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, direct flights
Social Behavior
Often forages in small loose groups outside the breeding season, concentrating around fruiting cacti. Breeding is monogamous; males sing to defend small territories and display from prominent perches or cactus tops. Nests are cup-shaped and placed in shrubs or Opuntia, where spines may offer some protection from predators.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a simple series of clear, buzzy trills and short chirped phrases repeated from exposed perches. Calls include sharp cheeps and metallic ticks used to keep contact within loose foraging groups.
