The pale-naped brushfinch is a species of bird in the family Passerellidae.
Region
Northern Andes
Typical Environment
Occurs along the Andean slopes of Venezuela, Colombia, and Ecuador, primarily in humid montane forests. Favors cloud forest edges, shrubby clearings, second growth, and bamboo thickets. Frequently keeps close to the ground or mid-understory where cover is dense. It tolerates lightly disturbed habitats and roadside tangles, provided sufficient understory remains.
Altitude Range
1500–3500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This brushfinch is a skulking Andean understory bird recognized by its contrasting pale nape. It forages quietly in pairs or family groups, often in dense bamboo (Chusquea) tangles and at forest edges. It sometimes joins mixed-species flocks moving through montane shrub and second growth.
A. p. papallactaePapallacta Pass, Ecuador
Temperament
secretive and wary
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low over vegetation
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups, moving methodically through dense understory. Joins mixed-species flocks in some areas, especially where bamboo is abundant. Builds a cup nest in shrubs or low vegetation; both parents participate in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of clear, whistled phrases delivered from inside cover. Calls include sharp chips and thin, metallic notes used to keep contact while foraging.
