Cardonero Coronirrojo
Pileated Finch
Coryphospingus pileatus
Song
Pileated Finch
Appearance: The Pileated Finch is a small bird around 13.5 cm in length. Males have a striking appearance with a bright red crown, which is the most distinctive feature. Their body is brownish with a paler underbelly. Females and juveniles are duller, with more subdued brown and gray tones and lack the bright red crown. They have a stout, conical bill of seed-eating birds.
Habitat: Pileated Finches are commonly found in dry, open areas such as savannas, scrublands, and edges of forests. They are more prevalent in the drier regions, often in areas that are not heavily forested.
Behavior: They feed on seeds, which they forage for on the ground or in low vegetation. They may also consume insects and other small invertebrates. Pileated Finches are often seen in pairs or small groups. They can be quite active and vocal, especially during the breeding season.
Breeding: These finches build cup-shaped nests in shrubs or low trees. The nests are constructed from twigs, grasses, and other plant materials. The female lays 2 to 3 eggs per clutch, which she incubates. Both parents are involved in feeding the chicks once they hatch.
Conservation Status: The Pileated Finch is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN.
MALE
FEMALE
Distribution
Some populations may be present in the foothills and lower elevations of the departments of Tolima and Huila, where appropriate habitats exist.
Taxonomy
The Pileated Finch (Coryphospingus pileatus)
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves (Birds)
- Order: Passeriformes
- Family: Thraupidae
- Genus: Coryphospingus
- Species: Coryphospingus pileatus
Vocalization
Purpose of Vocalization
Territorial Defense: Males use their songs to declare and defend their territory from other males. The vocalization serves as a warning to potential intruders and helps maintain the boundaries of their territory.
Mate Attraction: During the breeding season, males sing to attract females. A strong and persistent song can indicate the health and vitality of the male, making him more attractive to potential mates.
Communication: Vocalizations are also essential for communication between mates and within family groups. Calls can signal the presence of food, alert others to potential danger, or help maintain contact while foraging.
Alarm Calls: In the presence of predators, Pileated Finches may use specific alarm calls to warn other birds of the threat, allowing them to take evasive action.
