The pink-browed rosefinch is a finch in the family Fringillidae. Nicholas Aylward Vigors first described the species in 1831. It is migratory and ranges across the northern regions of the Indian subcontinent, mainly in the Himalayas. It is found in Bhutan, Tibet, India, Nepal, and Pakistan. Its natural habitats are boreal forests, shrub-lands, grasslands, and dry forests.
Region
Himalayas and Tibetan Plateau
Typical Environment
Occurs from northern Pakistan and India through Nepal and Bhutan into southern Tibet. Breeds in montane conifer and mixed forests, rhododendron and juniper scrub, and alpine meadows. In winter it descends to lower montane broadleaf forests, scrubby hillsides, and forest edges. Prefers shrubby slopes, clearings, and ravines with seed-rich vegetation and nearby cover.
Altitude Range
1500–4200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The pink-browed rosefinch is a Himalayan finch notable for the male’s rosy eyebrow and face markings. It undertakes seasonal altitudinal movements, breeding higher on cool, shrubby slopes and descending to lower elevations in winter. Often seen in small flocks, it frequents rhododendron and juniper scrub, forest edges, and alpine meadows.
Temperament
wary and somewhat retiring
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with bounding, finch-like flight
Social Behavior
Often forages in pairs or small flocks outside the breeding season. Breeding is presumed monogamous, with a cup nest placed low in dense shrubs or small trees. The species is quiet and keeps close to cover, flushing when approached.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
A soft, sweet finch-like warble interspersed with thin, high notes. Calls include sharp chips and thin seee notes used to maintain contact in cover.
Plumage
Streaked brown upperparts with paler underparts; short, stubby finch bill. Male shows rosy-pink eyebrow and face tints with subtle reddish wash on breast; female is more uniformly brown with a pale buff eyebrow and heavier streaking.
Diet
Feeds mainly on seeds of grasses, weeds, and shrubs, along with buds and small berries. Supplements diet with small insects and other invertebrates, especially in the breeding season. Gleans food from low shrubs and ground, occasionally perching to pluck buds.
Preferred Environment
Favors scrubby slopes, forest edges, and open clearings with rhododendron or juniper. In winter, frequents lower-elevation scrub and weedy fields near forest.
