FeatherScan logo
FeatherScan
Overview
Yellow-striped brushfinch

Yellow-striped brushfinch

Wikipedia

The yellow-striped brushfinch is a species of bird in the family Passerellidae. This bird's systematic history is described as monotypic, meaning that this bird is the only member of its particular taxonomic group and there are no subspecies.

Loading map...

Distribution

Region

Andes Mountains

Typical Environment

Found in humid montane forest edges, secondary growth, thickets, and shrubby clearings within the central Peruvian Andes. It favors dense understory vegetation, including bamboo and tall shrubs, where it can move discreetly while foraging. The species uses forest margins, landslides, and regenerating patches, showing some tolerance of disturbed habitats. It is typically local but can be fairly common where suitable cover is extensive.

Altitude Range

2000–3400 m

Climate Zone

Highland

Characteristics

Size17–19 cm
Wing Span25–28 cm
Male Weight0.038 kg
Female Weight0.035 kg
Life Expectancy6 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

The Yellow-striped Brushfinch is a monotypic species in the family Passerellidae, with no recognized subspecies. It keeps to dense understory and shrub tangles, often remaining hidden while foraging close to the ground. Pairs or small family groups are most often seen, sometimes accompanying mixed-species flocks along forest edges. Its restricted Peruvian range makes local habitat protection especially important.

Gallery

Bird photo
Bird photo
Bird photo

Behaviour

Temperament

skulking and cautious

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats, low and direct between cover

Social Behavior

Usually seen in pairs or small family groups, maintaining contact calls while moving through dense cover. It nests low in shrubs or thickets with a cup-shaped nest and is presumed socially monogamous. Outside breeding, it may join mixed-species flocks along edges and second growth.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Song consists of clear, mellow whistles delivered in short phrases, often from within cover. Calls are sharp chips and thin seep notes used to maintain contact in thick vegetation.

Similar Bird Species