Wedge-tailed Grass-Finch

Emberizoides herbicola

Among all the streaky sparrowlike birds of open grassy habitats in its range, Wedge-tailed Grass-Finch is unique with its long spiky tail. Also note the stout yellow bill. Otherwise rather pale brown overall, clean buffy below with thick black streaks on back. If seen well, back and wings are suffused with a yellow tone. Similar to Lesser Grass-Finch, but is larger, darker and lacks a white throat. Look for singles or pairs in grassy or brushy fields, often announcing their presence with a chip note.

Identification

Among all the streaky sparrowlike birds of open grassy habitats in its range, Wedge-tailed Grass-Finch is unique with its long spiky tail. Also note the stout yellow bill. Otherwise rather pale brown overall, clean buffy below with thick black streaks on back. If seen well, back and wings are suffused with a yellow tone. Similar to Lesser Grass-Finch, but is larger, darker and lacks a white throat. Look for singles or pairs in grassy or brushy fields, often announcing their presence with a chip note.

Taxonomy

Scientific name
Emberizoides herbicola
Authority
(Vieillot, 1817)
Order
Passeriformes
Family
Thraupidae
Genus
Emberizoides

Range and habitat

Migration
Resident species

Conservation

Population trend
declining

Photos

Distribution

Bird Calls

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