The scrub euphonia is a species of bird in the family Fringillidae.
Region
Mesoamerica
Typical Environment
Found from western and southern Mexico south through Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, and into northwestern Costa Rica. It favors arid to semi-humid scrub, thorn forest, second growth, and edges of dry and gallery forests. The species readily uses disturbed habitats, including coffee plantations, hedgerows, and urban gardens. It typically stays in the mid to upper canopy but will descend to feed on fruiting shrubs. Local abundance can be high where small berry-producing plants are common.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The scrub euphonia is a small, fruit-eating finch-like songbird placed by most authorities in the family Fringillidae. It thrives in dry scrub, forest edges, and second growth and often visits gardens and plantations. Pairs are frequently seen foraging quietly in the canopy, where they swallow small fruits whole and disperse seeds. Its high, thin whistles are a common sound across much of western Mesoamerica.
Female (left) and male (right)
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often seen in pairs or small family groups and sometimes joins mixed-species flocks. Nests are compact cups placed well hidden in foliage or vine tangles. Both parents participate in feeding the young, and pairs may defend small areas around favored fruiting plants.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song and calls are a series of thin, high-pitched whistles and squeaks, often delivered in short, repetitive phrases. Vocalizations carry well and are frequently given from the canopy. Calls can sound tinkling or sibilant, aiding detection in dense foliage.
