Black siskin

The black siskin (Spinus atratus) is a species of finch in the family Fringillidae.

It is found in Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, and Peru.

Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical high-altitude shrubland and subtropical or tropical high-altitude grassland.

The black siskin grows to a length of about 13 centimetres (5 in). The male is mostly a glossy black colour with the exception of a band of yellow at the base of the primaries, and the base of the tail and the lower belly which are yellow. The female is similar but the black part of the plumage is less glossy and more brownish. The only other bird within its range with which it might be confused is the yellow-rumped siskin (Spinus uropygialis). When stationary they are easily distinguished, but in flight the black siskin displays various patches of yellow plumage on its rump and on the wings which enhances the similarity.