The saffron siskin is a species of finch in the family Fringillidae. It is found in Ecuador and Peru. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical dry forests, subtropical or tropical dry shrubland, and urban areas. It is threatened by habitat destruction and the IUCN has assessed it as being a "least concern species".
Region
Tumbes–Piura dry forests
Typical Environment
Occurs in southwestern Ecuador and adjacent northwestern Peru, centered on the Tumbesian dry-forest belt. It uses semi-open habitats including dry forest edges, thorn scrub, second growth, agricultural mosaics, and urban green spaces. The species tolerates disturbance better than some forest specialists but still depends on patches of native vegetation. Local movements may follow seeding plants and water availability.
Altitude Range
0–1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The saffron siskin is a small finch of the Tumbesian dry-forest region of southwestern Ecuador and northwestern Peru. It often frequents edges, scrub, farmlands, and even parks and gardens, where it feeds on weed seeds. Habitat loss and trapping have reduced its numbers, and the species has a relatively restricted range. Males are noticeably brighter yellow than females, which are more olive and subdued.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
undulating finch-like flight with quick, shallow wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often in pairs during the breeding season and small flocks or loose groups at other times. Nests are cup-shaped and placed in shrubs or small trees, with both parents attending young. Likely monogamous, with breeding timed to periods of increased food after seasonal rains.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A lively, twittering series of sweet trills and twinkling notes delivered from exposed perches. Calls include thin, sibilant seee and rapid chatter used to keep contact in small flocks.
Plumage
Males are bright saffron-yellow below with olive to yellow-olive upperparts and blackish wings showing a bold yellow panel; tail is dark with yellow edges. Females are duller olive-brown above with yellowish underparts and less distinct wing panels. Both sexes have fine streaking limited or absent and a neat, compact finch silhouette.
Diet
Primarily consumes small seeds from grasses and weedy forbs (often Asteraceae), supplemented by buds and soft plant material. During breeding, it takes small insects and arthropods to provide protein for nestlings. It may also peck at fruits or nectar-rich flowers opportunistically. Foraging is mostly gleaning from seed heads and low vegetation, with occasional ground feeding.
Preferred Environment
Edges of dry forest, thorn scrub, overgrown fields, and ruderal areas with abundant weed seeds. Common around farms, hedgerows, and urban parks or gardens where seeding plants are available.
