The Himalayan white-browed rosefinch is a true finch species.
Region
Himalayas
Typical Environment
Occurs from northern Pakistan and India through Nepal and Bhutan into southern Tibet and adjacent western China. It favors rhododendron and juniper scrub, edges of coniferous and mixed montane forests, and alpine meadows with scattered shrubs. Outside the breeding season it may use more open, brushy slopes and forest clearings. It often forages near treeline but will descend to sheltered valleys in winter.
Altitude Range
2700–4600 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Himalayan white-browed rosefinch is a true finch of high-elevation scrub and forest edges across the Himalayas. Males are notable for a bold white eyebrow contrasting with rich rose-pink plumage, while females are streaky brown with a pale supercilium. It makes altitudinal movements, descending in winter to lower montane zones. It was formerly lumped with the Chinese white-browed rosefinch but is now widely treated as a separate species.
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with undulating flight
Social Behavior
Often seen in pairs during the breeding season and in small loose flocks in the non-breeding period. Nests are cup-shaped and placed low in dense shrubs or small conifers. Likely monogamous, with typical clutches of 3–5 eggs and both parents provisioning the young.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
A soft, sweet finch-like warble delivered from a shrub or low perch. Calls include thin metallic chips and short twitters. The song is modest in volume but can carry in open alpine scrub.
