The Pampa finch, also known as the great Pampa-finch, is a species of bird. It was traditionally placed in the family Emberizidae but molecular phylogenetic studies have shown that it is a member of the tanager family Thraupidae.
Region
Southern South America
Typical Environment
Found broadly across the Pampas and adjacent grasslands of Argentina, Uruguay, southern Brazil, and Paraguay, with local occurrence in eastern Bolivia. It inhabits tall native grasslands, pastures, marsh edges, and shrubby pampas. The species often uses roadside verges, fencelines, and abandoned fields where grasses are allowed to grow tall. It adapts to moderate grazing and patchy burning but declines where grass is kept very short or converted to intensive cropland.
Altitude Range
0–1500 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Also called the Great Pampa-finch, this species was traditionally placed in Emberizidae but genetic studies place it within the tanager family Thraupidae. It favors open grasslands and often sings from fence posts and shrub tops, making it easier to spot in otherwise uniform habitats. Its presence can indicate relatively intact tall-grass structure, and it may shift locally with seasonal mowing or burning. The species is common across much of the southern cone of South America.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short low flights with rapid wingbeats, often undulating over grass tops
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups, especially outside the breeding season. Nests are cup-shaped and placed low in dense grass or shrubs. Pairs defend small territories and perform song displays from exposed perches such as fence posts.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
A clear, lively series of whistles and trills, often a bright warble delivered from prominent perches. Calls include sharp metallic tinks and thin tseep notes used for contact within cover.
Plumage
Overall olive-brown to greenish-brown upperparts with a contrasting grayish head and long, dark tail; underparts buffy to grayish with warmer tones on the flanks. Wings show subtle rufous or warm edging on the coverts. Feathers appear smooth and sleek, suited for moving through dense grasses.
Diet
Consumes grass and weed seeds, shoots, and small arthropods such as beetles, caterpillars, and spiders. During breeding, it takes more insects to feed growing chicks. It forages mostly on or near the ground, picking seeds from seed heads and gleaning insects from low vegetation.
Preferred Environment
Tall native grasses, weedy field margins, and marsh edges with scattered shrubs or posts for perching. Frequently feeds along fencelines and lightly grazed pastures where vegetation structure is heterogeneous.
