The hooded siskin is a small passerine bird in the finch family (Fringillidae), native to South America. It belongs to the putative clade of neotropical siskins in the genus Spinus sensu lato.
Region
Andean region and Southern Cone of South America
Typical Environment
Occurs widely from the tropical and subtropical Andes through temperate southern South America. Found in open woodlands, scrub, forest edges, agricultural lands, and urban parks and gardens. It frequents areas with weedy seed sources such as thistles and other composites, as well as hedgerows and riverine vegetation. Some populations move locally with food availability and elevation.
Altitude Range
0–4000 m
Climate Zone
Other
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The hooded siskin is a small, lively finch with striking sexual dimorphism: males show a black hood and bright yellow-green body, while females are duller and more streaked. It adapts well to human-modified habitats and often visits gardens and city parks. Outside the breeding season it forms noisy flocks and may join mixed-species groups while feeding.
Female in Brazil
Carduelis magellanica eggs MHNT
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
undulating flight with short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often seen in small to medium flocks outside the breeding season and may join mixed-species feeding groups. Breeding pairs build small cup nests in shrubs or trees; clutches typically contain 3–4 eggs. Males sing from exposed perches during courtship and territory advertisement.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Song is a lively series of rapid twitters, trills, and buzzy phrases delivered in short bursts. Calls include sharp chips and rolling twitters exchanged constantly within flocks.
Plumage
Male is bright yellow-green with a contrasting black hood and darker wings with bold yellow wing bars; tail shows yellow edges. Female is olive to brownish with fine streaking and less vivid wing markings. Both sexes have a compact, finch-like build.
Diet
Primarily eats seeds from grasses and composite plants such as thistles, dandelions, and other weeds. Also takes buds, small fruits, and occasionally small insects, especially during the breeding season. Often gleans seeds directly from seed heads and will forage on the ground or in low vegetation.
Preferred Environment
Feeds along weedy field margins, roadsides, garden seed heads, and forest edges. Frequently exploits disturbed areas and agricultural lands where seed-bearing plants are abundant.
