The olivaceous siskin is a species of finch in the family Fringillidae. It is found in Bolivia, Ecuador, and Peru, where its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist montane forests and heavily degraded former forest.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs along the eastern Andean slopes of Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia in subtropical to tropical moist montane forests. Most common at forest edges, secondary growth, and along roadsides and clearings where seed-producing weeds and trees are plentiful. It also uses riparian corridors and semi-open patches within cloud forest. The species adapts well to degraded habitats and recovering forest, provided there is sufficient shrub and tree cover.
Altitude Range
1000–3200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
A small Andean finch, the olivaceous siskin keeps to forest edges and clearings where seed-bearing plants are abundant. It often travels in small, lively flocks and may join mixed-species foraging groups. Males are brighter olive-yellow than females, which are duller and more brownish. They frequently track seasonal seed sources, especially flowering and seeding trees.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with bounding, undulating flight
Social Behavior
Usually seen in small flocks outside the breeding season and may associate with other small seedeaters. Breeds in pairs with loosely spaced territories along forest edges and clearings. Nests are small cups placed in shrubs or trees, and both adults participate in feeding young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A rapid series of twittering trills and thin, high-pitched notes typical of siskins. Calls include sharp tsee and tinkling contact notes exchanged within flocks.
Plumage
Mostly olive-green with yellow-olive underparts; wings and tail are darker with bright yellow panels and edges. Plumage is relatively plain without strong head patterns; females are duller and more brownish-olive with subtle streaking. Wing shows a noticeable yellow patch when perched and in flight.
Diet
Primarily consumes small seeds from weeds, grasses, and trees, including alders and composites. Also takes buds and soft plant material, especially when seeds are scarce. During the breeding season it supplements with small insects and other arthropods for added protein.
Preferred Environment
Feeds at forest edges, along roadsides, and in secondary growth where seed heads are abundant. Often forages in the canopy of seeding trees and will descend to weedy patches to pick seeds from stalks.
