Long-tailed reed finch

The long-tailed reed finch is a species of South American bird in the tanager family Thraupidae. It is the only member of its genus Donacospiza.

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Distribution

Region

Southern Cone

Typical Environment

Occurs widely in southern South America, especially in the pampas and coastal lowlands of Argentina, Uruguay, southern Brazil, and adjacent Paraguay. It favors freshwater marshes, reedbeds, and wet grasslands with dense cover. Birds are frequently found along the margins of ponds, slow rivers, irrigation canals, and seasonally flooded fields. Populations can be patchy where suitable tall emergent vegetation is discontinuous. Local movements follow water levels and reed growth.

Altitude Range

0–1200 m

Climate Zone

Temperate

Characteristics

Size16–19 cm

Wing Span22–25 cm

Male Weight0.018 kg

Female Weight0.016 kg

Life Expectancy5 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

A monotypic member of the tanager family (Thraupidae), the long-tailed reed finch specializes in tall marsh vegetation and pampas wetlands. It often sings from exposed reed tops despite otherwise skulking habits. Its long, graduated tail helps with balance while moving through dense reeds. Drainage and degradation of marshes can locally affect its numbers.

Gallery

Behaviour

Temperament

skulking but sings from exposed perches

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats low over vegetation

Social Behavior

Outside the breeding season it forages singly or in small loose groups, often remaining in cover. During breeding, pairs defend small territories within extensive reedbeds or wet grasslands. The nest is a cup placed low in dense grasses or reeds, and both parents attend the young.

Migratory Pattern

Partial migrant

Song Description

A bright, tinkling series of notes delivered from reed tops, interspersed with thin whistles. Calls include sharp chips and soft contact notes given while moving through cover.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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