The grey pileated finch, also known as the pileated finch, is a species of bird in the family Thraupidae, where it has recently been moved to from the Emberizidae. It is found in Brazil, Colombia, French Guiana, and Venezuela in subtropical or tropical dry forests, subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests, subtropical or tropical dry shrubland, and heavily degraded former forest.
Region
Northern South America
Typical Environment
Occurs in Brazil, Colombia, French Guiana, and Venezuela, mainly in lowlands and foothills. It frequents subtropical and tropical dry forest edges, moist lowland forest margins, dry shrubland, and secondary growth. Common in scrubby savannas, gallery woodland, and thickets, including heavily degraded former forest and brushy agricultural mosaics. Tolerant of disturbance, it often uses hedgerows and weedy fields near settlements.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Also called the pileated finch, this species belongs to the tanager family (Thraupidae) after formerly being placed with Emberizidae. It favors scrubby edges, secondary growth, and lightly wooded areas where it perches conspicuously to sing. Males show a small, dark crest that inspires the name “pileated.” It often persists in human-altered habitats, including degraded forests and brushy farmland.
Temperament
alert and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low and direct between shrubs
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups, sometimes joining mixed-species flocks in scrubby habitats. The male often sings from exposed perches atop bushes to advertise territory. Nests are small cups placed low to mid-level in dense shrubs. Territorial during breeding but more tolerant of conspecifics outside the breeding season.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A bright, melodious series of clear whistles and short trills delivered from an elevated perch. Calls include sharp chips and tseet notes used for contact within cover.
Plumage
Male is mostly slate-gray with a darker, pileated crest and contrasting paler underparts; female is browner-gray with a less distinct crest and warmer tones on the face and wings. Both sexes show clean, smooth plumage with subtle contrasts and a neat appearance.
Diet
Takes small seeds, soft fruits, and a variety of arthropods such as beetles and caterpillars. Gleans from low foliage and the ground, picking seeds from grasses and weeds. Insects are often taken during the breeding season, while seeds and small berries form a larger portion of the diet at other times.
Preferred Environment
Forages in brushy edges, secondary growth, and weedy fields, often near forest margins or along trails and roadsides. Frequently uses tangles and low shrubs where it can remain partially concealed.
