Large-footed Finch

The Large-footed Finch, Pezopetes capitalis, is a robust, terrestrial bird, notable for its impressive stature among its kin. Adults measure around 20 cm in length and weigh approximately 56 grams, making them one of the heaviest in the Passerellidae family. They exhibit a slate grey head, with the throat, forehead, and crown sides transitioning to black. The upper parts are a dark olive, while the wings and tail are black with olive fringes. The underparts are a vivid olive, with a brownish hue on the flanks and lower belly.

Identification Tips

When identifying the Large-footed Finch, look for its slender bill, modestly sized tail, and particularly its very large and powerful feet and legs. The adult's coloration is distinct, with the contrast between the slate grey head and the black throat area being quite prominent. Juveniles can be recognized by their streaked dark olive head, blackish scaling on the upperparts, and buff-olive underparts.

Habitat

This species thrives in the undergrowth of mountain forests, second growth, and bamboo clumps. It is also found in scrubby pastures and the scrubby páramo, at altitudes ranging from 2150 meters to 3350 meters.

Distribution

Endemic to the highlands of Costa Rica and western Panama, the Large-footed Finch is a common sight in locations such as Cerro de la Muerte.

Behaviour

Typically observed in pairs, the Large-footed Finch is a ground-dweller. It is known for its powerful double scratches when foraging, capable of sending debris up to 30 cm away. This bird is also known to pick berries from low bushes.

Song & Calls

The male Large-footed Finch serenades with a song composed of whistles, warbles, chatter, and mimicry, often performed from the ground or a low perch. Additionally, the species emits a thin 'seet' call.

Breeding

The female constructs a large, loose cup-shaped nest from plant material, usually situated less than 2 meters above ground in bamboo or a dense shrub. The typical clutch consists of one or two brown-marked white or blue-white eggs. The female incubates these eggs alone for a period of 12 to 14 days before they hatch.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Large-footed Finch includes insects, spiders, and seeds, which it extracts from the leaf litter. It also consumes berries, which it gathers from low-growing vegetation.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List classifies the Large-footed Finch as Least Concern, indicating that, currently, there are no immediate threats to its population numbers.