The small tree finch is a bird species belonging to the Darwin's finch group within the tanager family Thraupidae. It has a grasping beak with curved culmens. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical dry forests and subtropical or tropical dry shrubland. During the non-breeding season it is known to form large groups with small ground-finches.
Region
Galápagos Archipelago
Typical Environment
Occurs on multiple islands across the Galápagos, using dry shrublands, arid lowland woodland, and more humid highland forests. It favors native and secondary growth with ample small branches and leaf cover for gleaning arthropods. Edges, clearings, and scrubby thickets are regularly used, as are Scalesia and other native tree stands. Outside breeding, it also visits coastal and agricultural mosaics where small insects and fruits are 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 tree finch has a slightly curved culmen adapted for gleaning insects from foliage and twigs. It commonly forms mixed-species flocks outside the breeding season, sometimes with small ground-finches. Males advertise territories with a rapid, high-pitched song and build domed nests, often in native trees. While widespread in the Galápagos, local breeding success can be affected by invasive parasites like Philornis downsi.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief undulations
Social Behavior
Breeds in territorial pairs; males sing from elevated perches and build domed nests with side entrances. Outside the breeding season, it joins loose flocks and may mix with other finches while foraging. Courtship includes song displays and bill-based interactions near prospective nest sites.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A rapid series of thin, high-pitched notes and trills delivered in short phrases. Calls are sharp chips used to keep contact within flocks and to signal alarm.
