The Three-banded Rosefinch (Carpodacus trifasciatus) is a species of finch in the family Fringillidae.
Region
Central and western China, eastern Tibetan Plateau
Typical Environment
Occurs in montane conifer and mixed forests, subalpine scrub, and rhododendron thickets. Breeds on cool, shrubby slopes and forest edges with ample cover. In winter it moves to lower valleys, forest clearings, and shrublands where seeds and berries are more available. Often uses alpine meadows and dwarf juniper or willow scrub near treeline.
Altitude Range
2500–4500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A high-elevation rosefinch of central and western China, the Three-banded Rosefinch favors shrubby slopes, forest edges, and rhododendron thickets. Males show striking rosy tones contrasted by multiple pale wingbars that inspire the name. Outside the breeding season it often joins small mixed finch flocks and descends to lower elevations in winter. Its song is a delicate series of twinkling notes typical of rosefinches.
Temperament
shy and retiring
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with undulating flight
Social Behavior
Breeds in pairs that defend small territories in dense shrub or forest edge. Outside the breeding season, gathers in small flocks, sometimes with other finches. Nests are cup-shaped and placed in shrubs or low conifers; typical clutches contain several pale, speckled eggs.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
A light, tinkling series of sweet, thin notes and short trills delivered from a perch within shrubs or low trees. Calls include soft finch-like chips and twitters, often given in flight.
Plumage
Male is rosy to crimson with brownish upperparts and three pale, distinct wingbars; female is warm brown with heavy streaking and faint pale wingbars. Both sexes have a stout conical bill and relatively long wings for a finch.
Diet
Feeds primarily on seeds of grasses, forbs, and shrubs, along with buds and berries such as rhododendron and juniper when available. During the breeding season it supplements with small insects and other invertebrates to meet protein needs. It will glean from seed heads, pick berries directly from shrubs, and occasionally forage on the ground.
Preferred Environment
Forages in dense shrubbery, forest edge, and alpine scrub near treeline. In winter it uses lower-elevation thickets, valley edges, and weedy clearings where seed resources concentrate.
