The yellow-bridled finch is a species of bird in the family Thraupidae found in Argentina and Chile.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs along the Andes of Argentina and Chile, favoring open puna-like grasslands, rocky slopes, and scrubby ravines. It frequents areas with scattered boulders, bunchgrasses, and patches of low shrubs or Polylepis edges. In the non-breeding season it can descend to lower elevations, including steppe margins and arid foothills. It typically forages on the ground or low vegetation, often in small groups.
Altitude Range
1000–4000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
A high-Andean tanager-like finch, the yellow-bridled finch is adapted to open, windswept slopes and grasslands. Males show a striking black facial 'bridle' against bright yellow plumage, while females are cryptically streaked. It often moves downslope in winter and may join mixed flocks with other Andean finches. Its robust conical bill is well-suited to tough grass seeds but it supplements with insects during breeding.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, direct flights
Social Behavior
Outside the breeding season it forms small flocks or joins mixed-species groups with other Andean finches. Pairs are likely monogamous, nesting low in dense grass tussocks or shrubs in a cup-shaped nest. During breeding, males display from prominent perches and defend small territories.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
A simple, tinkling finch-like song delivered from a perch or during short display flights. Calls are sharp metallic chips and soft twitters used to keep flock contact in open terrain.
Plumage
Males are bright yellow with a contrasting black facial mask and narrow 'bridle' line, with olive-gray upperparts. Females are brownish-olive with subtle streaking and a duller yellow wash below. Both sexes have a stout, conical bill suited to seed eating.
Diet
Primarily consumes seeds of grasses and forbs, husking them with its strong bill. During the breeding season it adds small insects and other arthropods to meet protein demands. It also takes buds and occasional leaves when seeds are scarce.
Preferred Environment
Forages on the ground or at the base of shrubs on open slopes, grasslands, and rocky flats. Often seeks sheltered lee sides of rocks or low shrubs in windy highland sites.
