The small ground finch is a species of bird in the tanager family Thraupidae. Endemic to the Galápagos Islands, it is common and widespread in shrubland, woodland, and other habitats on most islands in the archipelago. It commonly feeds on small seeds and parasites from the skins of Galápagos land and marine iguanas and Galápagos tortoises.
Region
Galápagos Archipelago
Typical Environment
Occurs on most major islands, occupying arid scrub, open woodland, lava fields with scattered shrubs, agricultural edges, and village areas. It forages largely on the ground and in low vegetation. During wetter periods it spreads into greener zones, while in the dry season it concentrates around seed-rich and human-modified habitats. It overlaps with other ground finches but tends to use the smallest seed sizes available.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
One of Darwin’s finches, the small ground finch has a notably small, stubby bill adapted to tiny seeds but it also takes insects and picks ectoparasites from iguanas and tortoises. Bill size and shape vary subtly among islands, reflecting local food resources. It is abundant across much of the Galápagos and often occurs near human settlements.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, direct flights
Social Behavior
Often forages in small flocks, including mixed groups with other finches. Breeding is generally monogamous, with cup nests placed in shrubs or low trees and multiple broods possible in wet years. Males sing from exposed perches to defend small territories during the breeding season.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a rapid series of thin, buzzy notes and trills, varying among islands. Calls include sharp chips and buzzes used in contact and alarm.
Plumage
Males are largely uniform black with a slight gloss; females and immatures are brown with heavy streaking and paler underparts. Overall appearance is compact with a rounded head and very small, conical bill.
Diet
Primarily small seeds from grasses and herbs, supplemented by insects and other small invertebrates. It also engages in cleaning behavior by picking ectoparasites from marine and land iguanas and occasionally from tortoises. During wet seasons it incorporates more arthropods and soft plant material, shifting back to dry seeds in the dry season.
Preferred Environment
Feeds on the ground and in low shrubs, along paths, open scrub, agricultural plots, and settlement edges. Frequently associates with other finches where resources are concentrated.
