Indonesian serin

Overview

Wikipedia

The Indonesian serin is a species of finch in the family Fringillidae.

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Distribution

Region

Sunda Islands (Indonesia)

Typical Environment

This species occupies upper montane forests, forest edges, and subalpine scrub on Indonesian islands, especially around the tree line. It frequents open patches with shrubs, grass tussocks, and scattered trees such as Casuarina. Birds often feed along trails, clearings, and on weedy slopes, moving between patches of seed-bearing plants. Outside the breeding season it can descend slightly to adjacent high-elevation secondary growth.

Altitude Range

1000–3500 m

Climate Zone

Highland

Characteristics

Size11–12 cm

Wing Span18–22 cm

Male Weight0.013 kg

Female Weight0.012 kg

Life Expectancy6 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 2/5

Useful to know

The Indonesian serin is a small finch of high montane habitats, often seen in lively, fast-moving flocks. It has historically been placed in Serinus but is now commonly treated in Chrysocorythus. Its bright, tinkling song carries over mossy forest edges and subalpine scrub. It is generally overlooked due to its remote, high-elevation range.

Gallery

Indonesian serin, Chrysocorythus estherae.

Behaviour

Temperament

social and active

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats with undulating finch-like flight

Social Behavior

Often seen in small, loose flocks outside the breeding season, moving quickly between seed sources. Pairs nest in dense montane shrubs or small trees, building a neat cup. Both parents are believed to feed the young, and family groups may linger together after fledging.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

A bright, thin, tinkling series of trills and twitters, reminiscent of siskins. Calls are high-pitched chips and rapid twittering contact notes used to keep flocks together.

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Identification

Leg Colorbrownish-grey

Eye Colordark brown

Plumage

Compact finch with olive-green to yellow-olive upperparts and lightly streaked pale underparts. Wings are dark with yellow edging and a faint wing panel; tail is slightly notched. Face shows a yellowish wash with a subtle pale supercilium.

Feeding Habits

Diet

Primarily takes small seeds from grasses, herbs, and composite plants. It also nips buds and soft plant material when available. During breeding it supplements with small arthropods for added protein.

Preferred Environment

Feeds in open montane edges, subalpine scrub, grassy slopes, and weedy clearings near forest. Often forages in low shrubs and on the ground, and occasionally in seed-laden flower heads.

Population

Total Known Populationunknown

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