The rufous-sided warbling finch is a species of bird in the family Thraupidae. It is found in the Southern Andean Yungas of Argentina and Bolivia. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical high-altitude shrubland.
Region
Southern Andes
Typical Environment
Occurs in the Southern Andean Yungas of northwestern Argentina and southern Bolivia. It favors shrubby slopes, open woodland edges, and patches of high-altitude scrub interspersed with grass and rocks. The species is most often seen at ecotones where montane forest grades into drier shrubland. It tolerates some habitat disturbance and often uses secondary growth.
Altitude Range
1200–3300 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A small Andean tanager, the rufous-sided warbling finch is named for its distinctive rusty flanks that contrast with otherwise grayish underparts. It often forages low in shrubs along Andean slopes and Yungas edges and may join mixed-species flocks. The species is generally sedentary but can make short altitudinal movements following food availability.
Temperament
active and somewhat skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between shrubs
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups; frequently associates with mixed-species flocks in the non-breeding season. Builds a small cup nest low in dense shrubs or grasses. Likely monogamous, with both parents involved in raising young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A bright, sweet warbling series delivered from low perches within shrubs. Calls include thin chips and twitters used to keep contact while foraging.
Plumage
Compact finch-like bird with a gray head and breast, brown-olive back, and conspicuous rufous patches along the flanks. Underparts are pale gray to whitish with a clean throat. Wings show faint pale wingbars; tail is medium-length and slightly notched.
Diet
Feeds on small seeds of grasses and forbs, complemented by insects and other arthropods. During the breeding season it increases insect intake to feed nestlings. It also takes buds and small berries when available.
Preferred Environment
Forages close to the ground and within low shrubs on Andean slopes, road cuts, and forest edges. Often uses open, brushy patches and regenerating scrub where seed and insect availability is high.
