Passeriformes / Fringillidae / Procarduelis
Dark-breasted Rosefinch
Procarduelis nipalensis · 暗胸朱雀
Introduction
A species of true finch in the monotypic genus Procarduelis, found in Bhutan, China, India, Laos, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Thailand, and Vietnam. It inhabits boreal forests and subtropical or tropical high-altitude shrubland. The species is categorized as Least Concern by the IUCN.
Description
Medium-sized finch exhibiting sexual dimorphism. Males have vibrant dark pink plumage with a contrasting lighter throat and eyebrow stripe. Females are subdued dark brown with conspicuous light-colored wingbars.
Identification
Males are distinguished by a unique head pattern. Females lack streaking on the underparts and possess prominent wingbars, distinguishing them from similar species like the Vinaceous Rosefinch. Vocalizations include a characteristic wheezy sparrow-like 'wheer'.
Distribution & Habitat
Range includes Bhutan, China, India, Laos, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Thailand, and Vietnam. Subspecies P. n. nipalensis occurs in the Himalayas (Kumaon to Nepal, Sikkim, Bhutan, southeastern Tibet), southwestern China, south Tibet, and northern Vietnam. P. n. kangrae is found in the western Himalayas (Kashmir to Garhwal). Habitats include boreal forests and high-altitude shrubland.
Behavior & Ecology
Shy and reclusive. Breeds in shrublands above the tree line and mixed forests with rhododendron elements. In winter, occurs in forest clearings and agricultural areas. Forages on the ground in pairs or small groups for seeds and berries.
Conservation
Categorized as Least Concern by the IUCN due to a large range, large population, and stable development. Not believed to be under substantial threat. Described as common or fairly common, though the global population has not been estimated.
Source: Wikipedia · CC BY-SA 3.0
Taxonomy
- Order
- Passeriformes
- Family
- Fringillidae
- Genus
- Procarduelis
Subspecies (2)
-
Procarduelis nipalensis kangrae
western Himalayas (Kashmir to Garhwal)
Data Sources
Species description from Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.
Bird images and sounds sourced from GBIF, contributed by citizen scientists worldwide under Creative Commons licenses.
Taxonomy data from AviList 2025.
