Patagonian Sierra-Finch Phrygilus patagonicus

Patagonian Sierra-Finch is a member of the "hooded" group of Phrygilus, the species of which remind some observers of the northern hemisphere juncos (Junco spp.). This is due to their ground foraging behavior, hooded appearance, and the predominance of gray or blackish colors in the wings, tail and hood. The various species within this group are similar in shape and size, and even resemble each other in call note and song; these species appear to be closely related and so probably recently derived. Their nearest relatives appear to be Sicalis (yellow-finches) rather than the other non-hooded species currently in Phrygilus. Patagonian Sierra-Finch is broadly sympatric with another member of the hooded group, Gray-hooded Sierra-Finch (P. gayi). Patagonian is found in forested habitats, and replaced in shrubby or higher elevation treeless habitats by Gray-hooded. In Patagonia the two overlap and hybridize along forest – steppe gradients, although hybridization is local and in a very narrow zone. Patagonian Sierra-Finch is brighter colored than Gray-hooded, having a brighter tawny tone to the upperparts and underparts, and more extensive color on the underparts such that the white on the belly is very much reduced as compared to Gray-hooded. Interestingly an isolated population of Gray-hooded Sierra-Finch in the coastal mountains of central Chile is both brighter in plumage color, and more apt to be found in forest edge situations – perhaps it is better placed as part of Patagonian Sierra-Finch?