The Patagonian Sierra Finch (Phrygilus patagonicus) is a species of bird found in the southern regions of South America, particularly in Argentina and Chile. It belongs to the family Thraupidae, which includes tanagers and other seed-eating birds.
Here are some key characteristics of the Patagonian Sierra Finch:
1. **Physical Appearance:** The male Patagonian Sierra Finch typically has a grayish-brown plumage with darker streaks on the back. It may also have a reddish or cinnamon wash on the head and throat. The females are usually more subdued in color, with a brownish-gray overall appearance.
2. **Habitat:** These finches are commonly found in open habitats such as grasslands, shrublands, and areas with scattered bushes. They can be seen at various elevations, including high-altitude regions.
3. **Diet:** Their diet consists mainly of seeds, but they may also consume insects. They forage on the ground and are often seen in small groups.
4. **Behavior:** Patagonian Sierra Finches are known for their ground-feeding behavior. They are often seen hopping around in search of seeds and insects.
5. **Breeding:** Breeding season varies depending on the region, but it generally occurs during the austral spring and summer months (September to February). The female builds a cup-shaped nest, typically in a bush or low tree, and lays a clutch of eggs.
6. **Distribution:** They are native to the southern parts of South America, with a range that includes southern Argentina and Chile. Their distribution may extend into the southernmost regions of the continent.
These finches are adapted to the challenging environmental conditions of the Patagonian region, where the weather can be harsh and unpredictable. Like many birds, they play a role in seed dispersal and contribute to the ecological balance of their habitats.
| Patagonian sierra finch | |
|---|---|
| |
| In Tierra del Fuego National Park, Argentina | |
Scientific classification 
| |
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Aves |
| Order: | Passeriformes |
| Family: | Thraupidae |
| Genus: | Phrygilus |
| Species: | P. patagonicus
|
| Binomial name | |
| Phrygilus patagonicus Lowe, 1923
| |
| |
The Patagonian sierra finch (Phrygilus patagonicus) is a species of bird in the family Thraupidae. It is found in Argentina and Chile.
Its natural habitats are temperate forests, subtropical or tropical dry shrubland, and temperate grassland.
Its diet consists mainly of seeds, flower parts, nectar, fruit, and insects,[2] but it has also been seen to forage on human refuse.[3]
References
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- ^ BirdLife International (2016). "Phrygilus patagonicus". IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. 2016: e.T22723075A94802458. doi:10.2305/IUCN.UK.2016-3.RLTS.T22723075A94802458.en. Retrieved 11 November 2021.
- ^ Egli, G., & J. Aguirre, C. 2000. Aves de Santiago. UNORCH, Santiago, Chile.
- ^ Crawshay, R. 1907. The birds of Tierra del Fuego. Bernard Quaritch, London, UK.
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