The moustached brushfinch is a species of bird in the family Passerellidae.
Region
Northern Andes
Typical Environment
Occurs in the Andes of Colombia and adjacent western Venezuela, mainly along the Eastern Cordillera. It inhabits humid montane forests, forest edges, and dense secondary growth, especially thickets and Chusquea bamboo. The species tolerates partially disturbed habitats and can appear in shaded coffee and along roadsides bordered by scrub. It generally keeps close to the ground or mid-understory, using dense cover for foraging and shelter.
Altitude Range
1500–3200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The moustached brushfinch is a skulking Andean songbird of the family Passerellidae, noted for its bold white ‘moustachial’ stripe. It frequents dense undergrowth and bamboo tangles where it forages low and often joins mixed-species flocks. Its adaptability to forest edges and secondary growth helps it persist despite habitat alteration.
Moustached Brushfinch, Santander Department, Colombia
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups, and often associates with mixed-species flocks in the understory. Nests are cup-shaped and placed low in dense vegetation; both parents typically participate in care. Territorial during breeding but tolerant of nearby conspecifics in good habitat.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of clear, thin whistles and trills delivered from concealed perches within thickets. Calls include sharp chips and soft tseet notes used for contact within pairs or flocks.
