The Taiwan bullfinch is a species of finch in the family Fringillidae. It is endemic to the mountains of Taiwan. It was previously considered a subspecies of the grey-headed bullfinch and most authorities consider it as such, but a 2020 study found it to represent a distinct species that diverged from the mainland Asian P. erythaca during the mid-Pleistocene, and the International Ornithological Congress accepted it as such.
Region
Taiwan
Typical Environment
Endemic to Taiwan’s central and northern high mountains, it inhabits mature evergreen broadleaf and mixed coniferous forests, forest edges, and bamboo understory. It frequents sheltered gullies and ridgelines with dense shrub layers, often moving between canopy and mid-story. After breeding, it may descend slightly to forest edges and secondary growth, especially where seeding plants are abundant.
Altitude Range
1500–3300 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Recently elevated to full species from the Grey-headed Bullfinch complex, the Taiwan bullfinch is a quiet, unobtrusive finch of high montane forests. Its stout, conical bill is adapted for cracking hard seeds and buds, and pairs often remain together year-round. Because it forages discreetly in dense foliage, it is frequently overlooked despite being locally fairly common.
Temperament
shy and unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with undulating hops between perches
Social Behavior
Often seen in pairs during the breeding season and in small family groups or loose flocks in non-breeding months. It may join mixed-species foraging parties at forest edges. Nests are cup-shaped and placed in dense shrubs or conifers; clutches are small and both parents help feed young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a soft, simple series of mellow whistles and brief warbles delivered from within cover. Calls include thin, high seee and soft tew notes used to stay in contact while foraging. Vocalizations are subdued compared to many other finches.
