Violaceous Euphonia

Physically almost identical to Sikkim Treecreeper, but throat pale tan-orange instead gray. Bright contrasting rusty tail distinguishes it from other treecreepers in its range. A species of foothill to montane and submontane regions; averages lower in elevational range than Sikkim Treecreeper, with minimal to no range overlap. Favors broadleaf evergreen and mixed forests. Occasionally found in mixed-species flocks. Song is slower than that of Sikkim Treecreeper, a rather slow ringing trill composed of paired notes; calls include an echoing two-note “tsijew” and a high “tzit.”

A medium-sized, compact lark with a bulbous head and a chunky pale bill that appears upturned. The plumage is buffy-brown, especially the underparts, and the eye is underlined with a dark stripe that has a diagnostic tear-drop mark. Pairs inhabit stark, stony plains with scattered small shrubs and occasional grass, where they flip stones and extract seeds from the bases of grass leaf-sheaths. The species is most often seen visiting waterholes in the heat of the day. Calls include a simple chirping “treeep” given repeatedly in flight and on the ground, often betraying its presence.

Locally fairly common in the high Andes. Often in flocks, sometimes by the hundreds, and associates readily with other seed-eating birds. Feeds mainly on the ground, often on roadside gravel or in animal corrals. Distinctive in most of range, and distinguished readily from other yellow-finches by combination of silvery-gray cheeks and grayish back and flanks. The namesake bright rump is usually hidden and is a poor field mark. In Chile, Greenish Yellow-Finch occurs mainly at lower elevations.