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Overview
White-rimmed brushfinch

White-rimmed brushfinch

Wikipedia

The white-rimmed brushfinch is a species of bird in the family Passerellidae. It is found in Colombia and Ecuador.

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Distribution

Region

Northern Andes

Typical Environment

Occurs on the slopes of the Andes in Colombia and Ecuador, favoring humid montane and cloud forests. It is most often found in dense understory, forest edges, second-growth thickets, and along streams. The species tolerates disturbed habitats, including regenerating forest and shrubby roadsides. It may also use bamboo stands and shaded agricultural margins where cover is dense.

Altitude Range

1200–3000 m

Climate Zone

Highland

Characteristics

Size17–19 cm
Wing Span23–26 cm
Male Weight0.035 kg
Female Weight0.032 kg
Life Expectancy6 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

This brushfinch is a skulker of Andean montane forests in Colombia and Ecuador, often keeping to dense understory and roadside thickets. Its name refers to the crisp white edging around the ear-coverts and face. It frequently joins mixed-species flocks while foraging and adapts well to secondary growth and forest edges.

Gallery

Bird photo
Bird photo
Bird photo

Behaviour

Temperament

shy and skulking

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats, low to the ground

Social Behavior

Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups within dense cover. Often associates with mixed-species flocks while foraging. Nests are typically well-concealed cup structures placed low in thick vegetation; both parents likely share care duties.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Song is a series of clear, mellow whistles and trills delivered from within cover. Calls include sharp chips and metallic tsip notes used to keep contact in dense foliage.

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