Przevalski's Finch

Przevalski's finch, also known as Przewalski's finch or Przevalski's pinktail, is a unique bird found in central-west China's mountains, named after Russian explorer Mikhail Pyltsov. This species, which once puzzled taxonomists due to its ambiguous classification, is now considered the sole member of the family Urocynchramidae, a status reflected in modern checklists like the Clements. Resembling the long-tailed rosefinch in size, it features sexually dimorphic plumage with males sporting bright pink undersides and both sexes showing brown-streaked backs and wings; its tail is long and graduated, a trait atypical of finches. Notably, it has a well-developed outer primary feather compared to finches and buntings. Inhabitants of high altitudes between 3,050 and 5,000 meters, Przevalski's finches live in pairs or small flocks, depending on the season. Although their behavior remains largely unstudied, they are not currently considered at risk and are classified as Least Concern by the IUCN.