The vampire ground finch is a small bird native to the Galápagos Islands. Endemic to Wolf and Darwin Island, it was previously considered a very distinct subspecies of the sharp-beaked ground finch, but the International Ornithologists' Union has split the species based on strong genetic evidence that they are not closely related, and divergences in morphology and song.
Region
Galápagos Islands (Eastern Pacific)
Typical Environment
Restricted to the small, rocky islands of Wolf and Darwin in the northern Galápagos. It occupies arid scrub and coastal cliff habitats with sparse shrubs and Opuntia cacti. The species often forages in and around seabird colonies, where it opportunistically feeds on blood and ectoparasites. It also uses open, stony ground and cactus thickets for nesting and foraging.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 250 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
One of the few birds known to drink blood, it pecks at the skin of Nazca and red-footed boobies to sip small amounts, especially in dry seasons when other foods are scarce. Despite the dramatic name, it also eats seeds, insects, and nectar, and likely evolved blood-feeding from parasite-pecking behavior. It is confined to the remote Wolf and Darwin islands of the Galápagos, where it shows distinct morphology and song from related finches.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often forages in small groups, especially around seabird colonies. Nests are built in shrubs or cacti; breeding typically follows rains that increase food availability. Pairs may defend small territories near nest sites but mix freely at feeding areas.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of thin, buzzy trills and chirps typical of Darwin’s finches, with island-specific variations. Calls include sharp chips and chatters used in contact and alarm.
