Black-headed Siskin Spinus notatus Scientific name definitions

Black-headed Siskin is a Middle America species distributed from central Mexico south to Nicaragua. It is resident in montane conifer and oak forest and at the lower edges of cloud forest. These siskins occur in small groups, hanging on seeding plants from which they feed on seeds. Although polytypic, subspecific designations reflect the three disjunct populations, rather than observable phenotypic differences. Male Black-headed Siskins are the only black-hooded yellow siskin within its range and should not present any identification problems. Note yellow wing pattern and pointed bill on immatures and females.