Tibetan snowfinch

Overview

Wikipedia

The Tibetan snowfinch or Henri's snowfinch is a species of bird in the sparrow family.

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Distribution

Region

Tibetan Plateau

Typical Environment

Found across open alpine steppe, meadows, and stony plains of the Tibetan Plateau, mainly in Tibet, Qinghai, and adjacent highlands. It favors sparsely vegetated terrain with scattered rocks and short grasses. The species often associates with pika colonies and grazed areas around nomad camps. It is locally common where suitable burrows and open ground occur, and it rarely descends to lower valleys.

Altitude Range

3500–5500 m

Climate Zone

Highland

Characteristics

Size15–17 cm

Wing Span28–33 cm

Male Weight0.038 kg

Female Weight0.034 kg

Life Expectancy5 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

Also known as Henri's snowfinch, this high-altitude sparrow thrives on the windswept Tibetan Plateau. It often nests in the burrows of plateau pikas, using grass and feathers to line the chamber. Flocks are commonly seen around yak pastures and remote settlements, showing remarkable tolerance of cold and thin air.

Gallery

Behaviour

Temperament

social and active

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats with low undulating flight

Social Behavior

Typically forms loose flocks outside the breeding season and often forages in small groups. Pairs nest in burrows, frequently those of pikas, lining the nest cup with fine grasses and feathers. Breeding is monogamous, with colonies forming where burrows are abundant.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

A light, twittering series of trills and chips that carry across open ground. Calls are sharp, metallic chirps used to keep contact within scattered flocks.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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