Grey-crowned Rosy Finch

The Gray-crowned Rosy Finch, Leucosticte tephrocotis, is a medium-large finch distinguished by its brown back and breast, with a predominantly pink hue on the underparts and wings. The species exhibits a striking black forehead and throat, with a contrasting grey cap at the back of the head. The bird's legs are short and black, and it sports a long, forked tail. Variability in the amount of grey on the head is noted among individuals, with adult females and juveniles resembling each other in plumage.

Identification Tips

Adults of this species can be identified by their unique coloration: a blend of brown and pink with a black forehead and throat, and a grey crown. The tail is notably long and notched. Subspecies such as L. t. wallowa have an almost entirely grey head, while others may differ in size and plumage details. The bird measures approximately 140 to 160 mm in length, with a wingspan of 33 cm, and weighs between 22 to 60 grams.

Habitat

The Gray-crowned Rosy Finch is adapted to life in alpine and tundra environments, often found amongst rocks and barren mountainous areas. During breeding, they select rocky islands and snowfields as their nesting grounds.

Distribution

This species is native to Alaska, western Canada, and the north-western United States. It has a wide range and large numbers throughout its native regions, with some subspecies residing permanently in the Aleutian and Pribilof Islands. Others migrate south to the western United States during winter.

Behaviour

The Gray-crowned Rosy Finch is known for its environment-specific habits, breeding in high-altitude rocky terrains and forming large flocks during non-breeding seasons. These flocks may include other bird species and can number over a thousand individuals. The birds forage on the ground and in flight, showing little fear of humans and can be approached closely.

Song & Calls

The call of the Gray-crowned Rosy Finch is a distinctive buzz-like "chew," and they are known to vocalize in small flocks.

Breeding

Breeding occurs in mid-June, with nests built in sheltered, hidden locations on the ground or cliffs. The species is monogamous, with both sexes participating in nest building and chick rearing. Females lay 3–5 eggs, which are incubated for about two weeks. Chicks fledge after 2–3 weeks and continue to receive parental care for an additional fortnight.

Similar Species

The Gray-crowned Rosy Finch can be confused with other rosy finches, such as the Black Rosy Finch, which has a black body, and the Brown-capped Rosy Finch, which is lighter brown and lacks the grey face patch.

Diet and Feeding

During summer, their diet consists mainly of insects, while in winter, they consume seeds from various weeds and grasses. Both males and females develop gular pouches to transport food to their chicks.

Conservation Status

The Gray-crowned Rosy Finch is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating a stable population.