Rufous-necked Snowfinch

The Rufous-necked Snowfinch, Pyrgilauda ruficollis, is a small passerine bird belonging to the sparrow family. It is a rather distinctive species within its range, notable for its bright coloration compared to other snowfinches.

Identification Tips

Adult Rufous-necked Snowfinches measure approximately 15 cm in length. They exhibit black lores and a predominantly whitish face, with the exception of chestnut or reddish-brown coloring on the rear ear-coverts and sides of the neck. The plumage is generally light brown, with darker streaks on the mantle and scapulars. Two white wingbars are present, formed by the tips of the coverts. Juveniles are paler and lack the well-defined face pattern of adults. This species can be distinguished from Blanford's snowfinch by the two black stripes on its face.

Habitat

This bird is adapted to life in alpine temperate grasslands, barren stony steppes, and plateaus.

Distribution

The Rufous-necked Snowfinch is native to Tibet and neighboring regions of central and western China. During winter, it migrates south to areas such as Uttarakhand, Nepal, Sikkim, and Bhutan, occasionally descending to lower altitudes.

Behaviour

The Rufous-necked Snowfinch is locally very common and is often found in close association with mouse-hares or pikas. It utilizes their burrows for breeding and shelter. Outside of the breeding season, it forms small flocks and roams a variety of mountainous terrains alongside other finches, such as Blanford's snowfinches. Its flight is characterized as weak and low, and it typically does not cover long distances. The bird forages on the ground, consuming small seeds and insects.

Song & Calls

The vocalizations of the Rufous-necked Snowfinch are soft, with a chattering alarm call. Additionally, it produces buzzing noises while in flight.

Conservation status

The Rufous-necked Snowfinch is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating that it is not at immediate risk of widespread decline.