Patagonian Sierra Finch Phrygilus patagonicus Scientific name definitions

Like other members of the genus Phrygilus, the Patagonian Sierra Finch is known for its attractive plumage, melodic song, and tolerance to human presence. It is a relatively large, stocky finch, with a blue-gray hood, wings, and tail that contrast with its yellow underparts and tawny (male) or olive (female) back. It is broadly sympatric with the Gray-hooded Sierra-Finch (P. gayi), but it prefers forested habitats; being replaced in shrubby or higher-elevation treeless habitats by Gray-hooded. The two species are similar in appearance; however, the Patagonian Sierra Finch can generally be differentiated by its brighter brighter tawny tones and limited white on the underparts.

Interestingly, an isolated population of Gray-hooded Sierra-Finch (Phrygilus gayi minor) in the coastal mountains of central Chile is both brighter in plumage color, and more apt to be found in forest edge situations, which suggests it may be better placed with Patagonian Sierra-Finch. To address taxonomic relationships among Phrygilus, ROC scientists are conducting a community science project to collect data regarding plumages, vocals, and other natural history details that, in combination with genetic analysis, will better elucidate the relationships between these taxa.