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Photo: © Robert Lewis eBird S39263608 Macaulay Library ML 71012261
yellow-headed-brushfinch

Yellow-headed Brushfinch

Atlapetes flaviceps
Gorrión-montés de Anteojos
map-colombia-yellow-headed-brushfinch
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Song

Yellow-headed Brushfinch

Appearance: The Yellow-headed Brushfinch is a medium-sized of 18 cm (7 in) in length. It has a yellow head. The rest of its body is olive-green, with some variations in shading. It has a stout bill, which is common in brushfinches, and dark eyes that contrast with its bright head.
Habitat: This species is found in subtropical or tropical moist montane forests. It favors dense undergrowth and forest edges. It is found at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,800 m above sea level.
Behavior: The Yellow-headed Brushfinch feeds  on seeds and insects. It forages in the underbrush and sometimes joins mixed-species flocks. It is a solitary or paired bird, but it may be seen in small groups during the non-breeding season.
Breeding: The species builds cup-shaped nests, often in shrubs or low trees. The nests are well-concealed. Detailed information on its breeding behavior is limited. The female lays a small clutch of eggs and incubated them.
Conservation Status: The Yellow-headed Brushfinch is listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List.

Distribution

This species is endemic to the eastern slopes of the central Andes in Colombia (Antioquia, Caldas, Risaralda, Quindío, Tolima, and Huila). It has a restricted range, which contributes to its conservation status. It is found in several protected areas, which are crucial for its survival but its range is fragmented due to habitat destruction. 

Taxonomy

The Yellow-headed Brushfinch (Atlapetes flaviceps)
  • Kingdom: Animalia
  • Phylum: Chordata
  • Class: Aves (Birds)
  • Order: Passeriformes
  • Family: Passerellidae
  • Genus: Atlapetes 
  • Species: Atlapetes flaviceps

Vocalization

The Yellow-headed Brushfinch is a bird species known for its own vocalizations. While specific recordings or descriptions of their calls can vary, brushfinches, in general, are known for their melodic and varied songs. 

The vocalizations of the Yellow-headed Brushfinch include a series of clear, musical notes that can be described as whistles or chirps. These sounds are often used for communication between individuals, especially during the breeding season, to establish territory and attract mates.