The Golden-winged sparrow is a species of bird in the family Passerellidae that can found in Colombia and Venezuela. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical dry forests and subtropical or tropical dry shrubland.
Region
Northern South America (Caribbean slope of Colombia and Venezuela)
Typical Environment
Occurs in subtropical and tropical dry forests, thorny scrub, and semi-open thickets, often near forest edges and along overgrown tracks. It favors dense understory and tangled shrub layers where it can remain concealed while foraging. The species also uses secondary growth and abandoned fields with regenerating scrub. In some areas it associates with dry intermontane valleys and the lower foothills.
Altitude Range
0–1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Golden-winged Sparrow is a shy, ground-oriented New World sparrow that keeps to dense thickets in Colombia and Venezuela. Its name comes from the distinct golden-yellow patch on the wing coverts, which stands out against otherwise olive and gray tones. It forages quietly in leaf litter and low shrubs, often in pairs or small family groups. Habitat loss in dry forest and scrub has likely reduced some local populations.
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, direct dashes between cover
Social Behavior
Typically found singly, in pairs, or small family groups. Nests are cup-shaped and placed low in dense shrubs or tangles. During breeding, pairs maintain small territories and remain close to thick cover.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of clear, whistled notes interspersed with soft trills, delivered from within cover. Calls include thin chips and tseet notes used for contact and alarm. The song is musical but modest in volume, often given at dawn and late afternoon.
