The white-bridled finch, also known as the canary-winged finch or black-throated finch, is a small passerine bird belonging to the genus Melanodera together with the yellow-bridled finch. Formerly placed in the family Emberizidae, it is now considered a tanager. It is found in grassland in southernmost South America. There are two subspecies: M. m. melanodera in the Falkland Islands and M. m. princetoniana in southern Argentina and Chile.
Region
Southern South America
Typical Environment
Found in southern Patagonia of Argentina and Chile and on the Falkland Islands. It favors open temperate grasslands, coastal meadows, and tussac grass on islands, and uses shrub–steppe, pastures, and windswept slopes on the mainland. It often forages on the ground along field edges, coastal flats, and dune grasslands. During harsher weather it may move to more sheltered coastal areas with abundant seeding grasses.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1000 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This tanager of open southern grasslands shows a striking male pattern with a bold white facial 'bridle' and a canary-yellow wing patch. It occurs in two subspecies: M. m. melanodera on the Falkland Islands and M. m. princetoniana in southern Argentina and Chile. Outside the breeding season it gathers in small flocks and may make local movements in search of seeding grasses.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with bounding flight
Social Behavior
Breeds in monogamous pairs that defend small territories within suitable grassland. The nest is a cup placed low in dense grass or low shrubs. Outside the breeding season, individuals form small flocks that roam locally following seed availability.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
The male delivers a bright, tinkling finch-like song with metallic twitters and short trills from exposed perches. Calls include thin 'tsit' or 'tink' notes given in flight and while foraging.
