The rufous-necked snowfinch is a species of bird in the sparrow family.
Region
Tibetan Plateau and western China
Typical Environment
Inhabits open alpine steppe, meadows, and stony plains across the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau, extending into adjacent highlands of western China and bordering regions of the Himalayas. It favors sparsely vegetated ground, grazed pastures, and windswept flats, often near human settlements and livestock enclosures. The species frequently uses rodent (especially pika) burrows for nesting and shelter. During winter it may descend slightly to lower alpine valleys but remains in open, treeless habitats.
Altitude Range
3000–5200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This high-altitude sparrow relative is closely tied to pika colonies, often nesting in their abandoned burrows. It forages on the ground in small flocks and commonly associates with pastoral areas. Its presence can indicate relatively intact alpine grasslands. It is well adapted to thin air and intense UV typical of the Tibetan Plateau.
From North Sikkim, India.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
fast, direct flight with short glides
Social Behavior
Often forms small to medium flocks outside the breeding season, feeding and moving together across open ground. Pairs are monogamous during breeding and frequently nest in burrows, sometimes in loose colonies where suitable holes are clustered. They spend much time on the ground, running or hopping between foraging spots.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A simple, sparrow-like series of chirps and trills delivered from rocks or low perches. Calls are sharp and metallic, used to keep contact within foraging groups.
Plumage
Sandy-brown upperparts with fine streaking, pale underparts, and a distinct rufous collar around the neck. Wings show contrasting pale panels with darker edging; tail is dark with pale outer edges. Overall plumage is crisp and clean-lined, suited to camouflage on stony ground.
Diet
Consumes grass and forb seeds, small arthropods, and insect larvae. During the breeding season it increases animal prey to feed nestlings. It also picks undigested seeds and insects around livestock areas and pika mounds. Foraging is primarily on the ground with quick pecking and short runs.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in open alpine meadows, steppe, and stony flats with low vegetation. Frequently forages near pika colonies and around corrals or tracks where seeds and insects are concentrated.
