The grey-crowned goldfinch, also called the eastern goldfinch, Himalayan goldfinch or grey-capped goldfinch is a small passerine bird in the finch family that is distributed throughout Central Asia and the Himalayas.
Region
Central Asia and the Himalayas
Typical Environment
Occurs from the western Himalayas through the Pamirs and Tien Shan into parts of Central Asia. It favors open montane habitats with scattered trees, shrublands, riverine thickets, orchards, and cultivated edges. In summer it frequents alpine meadows and scrub near the treeline; in winter it descends to foothills, valleys, and sheltered farmlands. It often gathers in small flocks outside the breeding season and can be locally common where seed plants are abundant.
Altitude Range
1200–4500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Often treated as a distinct species, the grey-crowned goldfinch is also considered by some authorities a subspecies of the European goldfinch. Its bright yellow wing panel is highly visible in flight and helps separate it from similar finches at a distance. It performs seasonal altitudinal movements, descending to lower valleys in winter. Flocks gather on thistle-rich slopes and weedy fields after breeding.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
undulating with short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Outside breeding, it forms small to medium flocks that forage on weedy slopes and field margins. Pairs are monogamous during the breeding season and build a compact cup nest in shrubs or small trees. Clutches typically contain several pale eggs, and both adults provision the young.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
A rapid, tinkling series of twittering trills and sweet notes, often delivered in short bursts. Calls are musical and lively, frequently given in flight and within feeding flocks.
