The vegetarian finch is a species of bird in the Darwin's finch group of the tanager family Thraupidae endemic to the Galápagos Islands. It is the only member of the genus Platyspiza.
Region
Galápagos Archipelago
Typical Environment
Occurs on several major islands across both arid lowlands and humid highlands. It frequents Scalesia and Miconia zones, shrubby thickets, forest edges, and areas with Opuntia cacti. The species is adaptable, moving between canopy and mid-level foliage to browse leaves and buds. It is generally more common in moister highland habitats but can be found near sea level where suitable vegetation exists.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also known as Darwin’s vegetarian finch, it is the sole member of the genus Platyspiza and one of the most herbivorous of Darwin’s finches. Its unusually deep, parrotlike bill is adapted for clipping leaves, buds, and fruit. It plays an important role in shaping island plant communities through browsing and seed handling.
Temperament
generally tame, calm, and methodical while foraging
Flight Pattern
short, direct flights with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often forages singly or in pairs, occasionally joining small mixed-species groups. Breeds in the warm season; males defend small territories and both sexes contribute to nesting. Nests are typically globular and placed in shrubs or trees.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
The song is a simple series of thin trills and buzzy phrases delivered from perches. Calls include sharp chip notes and soft contact calls used while moving through foliage.
Plumage
Mostly olive-green to grayish-olive with a slightly paler throat and underparts; females duller with subtle streaking. Feathers are smooth and plain without wing bars. The massive, deep-based bill is a standout feature.
Diet
Primarily consumes leaves, buds, flowers, and soft fruits, using its powerful bill to clip and manipulate plant material. It also takes seeds and occasionally small invertebrates, especially for nestlings. Seasonal shifts in food choice reflect plant availability across arid and humid zones.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in shrublands, forest edges, and humid highland vegetation, particularly in Scalesia and Miconia zones. Often browses in mid-story and canopy foliage and around Opuntia stands.
