The Yemen serin is a species of finch in the family Fringillidae. It is found in Oman, Saudi Arabia, and Yemen.
Region
Arabian Peninsula
Typical Environment
Occurs in the highlands of Yemen, the Asir and adjacent mountains of southwestern Saudi Arabia, and the Dhofar region of southern Oman. Prefers rocky slopes, cliffs, and steep wadis with scattered shrubs and trees such as Acacia and juniper. It also uses terraced fields, village edges, and garden patches where seeds are abundant. The species stays close to water sources in the dry season and moves locally in response to food availability.
Altitude Range
900–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The Yemen serin is a small, streaky finch of the Arabian Peninsula’s highlands, often seen flitting along rocky wadis and terraced fields. It forages in small, noisy groups and frequently visits water sources in dry seasons. Males and females look similar, and the species is typically unobtrusive unless vocalizing with its tinkling finch-like song.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
undulating flight with short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often forms small flocks outside the breeding season and loosely associates with other seed-eating finches. Pairs nest in shrubs, small trees, or on sheltered ledges in rocky terrain. Both parents participate in provisioning the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A light, tinkling series of twittering notes and trills delivered from low perches or in short song flights. Calls include soft, buzzy twitters used to keep contact within feeding groups.
Plumage
Fine, streaky brown upperparts with paler, buffy underparts marked by dusky streaking; overall a dull, sandy-brown finch appearance.
Diet
Primarily consumes small seeds of grasses and herbaceous plants, including weedy species along terraces and field margins. Supplements with buds and green plant material when seeds are scarce. During breeding, it may take small insects and larvae for added protein.
Preferred Environment
Feeds on the ground and low vegetation along rocky slopes, wadis, and field edges. Frequently visits seeding grasses near villages and cultivations, and gathers at water sources in arid periods.
