Brown-capped Rosy Finch Data: Range, Length, Clutch-size and Incubation Periods for each Finch Species
The Brown-capped Rosy Finches (or Brown-capped Rosy-finch), Leucosticte australis, is a medium-sized finch. At one time, the three North American Rosy finches were considered to be one species.
- Beautiful photos to the right by E.J. Peiker, Nature Photographer – www.ejphoto.com
Description:
Adults average 14-17 cm (5.7-6.5 in) in length. They are brown on the head, back and breast with pink on the belly, rump and wings. The forehead is black. They have short black legs and a long forked tail.
Distribution / Habitat:
Their breeding habitat is mountain peaks in the central Rocky Mountains of the United States. They build a cup nest in a cavity on a cliff, or re-use abandoned Cliff Swallow nests.
In winter, these birds migrate short distances to lower elevations.
One of the best places to view all three North American species of Rosy-Finches is at the Crest House as they winter in the Sandia Mountains east of Albuquerque. Visit www.rosyfinch.com for details.
The population of this bird appears to be declining.
Breeding:
The average clutch size consists of 5 eggs, which are incubated for 12 to 14 days.
Diet / Feeding:
They feed on the ground or may fly to catch insects in flight. They mainly eat seeds from weeds and grasses and insects. They often feed in small flocks.
Further Finch Reading
- Finch Information
- Index of Finch Species
- Photos of the Different Finch Species for Identification
- Common Health Problems of Finches
- Finch / Canary Diet / Nutrition
