Bunting measuring 15–17 cm, with an overall olive coloration and more yellowish tones on the underparts. Head with a very contrasting pattern: dominant yellow (supercilium, throat, and malar stripe), framed by a dark crown and mask and by fine black malar lines bordering the throat. Back, wings, and tail olive-colored, with darker tones. Short, conical, and robust bill, dark gray in color; legs pinkish-gray. Sexes similar.
Geographic distribution: Endemic to Argentina, restricted to the southern Yungas of the northwest, from southeastern Jujuy (mainly the Santa Bárbara ranges) and Salta, through Tucumán, to southern Catamarca. Its distribution is interrupted to the north, where in the montane forest of the Yungas its niche is occupied by its congener, the Fulvous-headed Brushfinch (Atlapetes fulviceps).
Habitat: Inhabits the understory and edges of montane forests of the Yungas, especially associated with the Andean alder (Alnus acuminata) up to the ecotone with Polylepis forests; between approximately 700 and 2,400 m a.s.l., descending to lower elevations in winter. In the southern part of its range, it is one of the most characteristic species of alder forests.
Diet: Omnivorous, feeding mainly on arthropods such as insects and spiders, and also on fruits of various species. It feeds mostly on or near the ground, although it may feed higher when consuming fruits.
Behavior: Usually moves in pairs or family groups. In ecotone areas between alder forests and Polylepis woodland, it is often seen with species such as the Tawny Tit-Spinetail (Leptasthenura fuliginiceps), the Rufous-headed Tanager (Thlypopsis ruficeps), the Black-backed Grosbeak (Pheucticus aureoventris), and the also endemic Cochabamba Mountain-Finch (Compsospiza baeri) (pers. obs.). It is restless while feeding, constantly moving through low vegetation. Although it may be somewhat hidden, it is confiding; when alerted, it usually perches on a low branch where it remains on the same perch, performing a marked lateral body swaying, moving side to side without leaving the spot (pers. obs.). Its song consists of a rapid series of sharp, metallic notes; it also frequently emits a short, high-pitched contact call.
Nesting: Nests in shrubs, at low height, in areas of dense vegetation. The nest is a structure about 15–18 cm in diameter, built with grasses and stems, and internally lined with fine material. The clutch consists of 2 to 3 cream-colored eggs with brown or chestnut spots, more concentrated toward one side.
Conservation status: Categorized internationally as Least Concern (LC), but considered Vulnerable (VU) in Argentina. It is an endemic species with a relatively restricted distribution, associated with specific environments of the southern Yungas. Although it currently does not present clearly documented direct threats, it is considered that historical loss and degradation of montane forest may have affected its populations. At present, it appears relatively stable, with higher densities in the southern part of its range in Tucumán and Catamarca, and present in protected areas such as Aconquija National Park (Tucumán) and El Rey National Park (Salta), as well as various provincial parks.
Author of this compilation: María Belén Dri and Diego Carús – 04/27/2026