Common Cactus Finch
A species of Ground Finches and Cactus Finches Scientific name : Geospiza scandens Genus : Ground Finches and Cactus Finches
Common Cactus Finch, A species of Ground Finches and Cactus Finches
Botanical name: Geospiza scandens
Genus: Ground Finches and Cactus Finches
Content
Description General Info
Description
The common cactus finch or small cactus finch (Geospiza scandens) is a species of bird in the Darwin's finch group of the tanager family Thraupidae. It is endemic to the Galapagos Islands, where it is found on most islands, with the notable exception of Fernandina, Española, Genovesa, Darwin and Wolf. Most of these islands are inhabited by its close relative, the Española cactus finch. Its natural habitats are dry scrubland and woodland. It is usually closely associated with the cactus Opuntia.
Size
14 cm
Nest Placement
Shrub
Feeding Habits
Common Cactus Finch mainly feeds on various parts of prickly-pear cacti, such as seeds, flowers, and fruits, which constitute a significant portion of its diet. Small seeds and arthropods supplement its generalist foraging behavior. Adaptations include a specialized beak for handling cactus offerings.
Habitat
Common Cactus Finch typically inhabits arid lowland areas within a broader insular environment. Their presence is closely associated with regions abundant in Opuntia cacti, which are crucial to their survival. While these birds are endemic to the Galápagos Islands, they show a strong preference for drier zones and rarely range into the more humid highland regions.
Dite type
Granivorous
General Info
Feeding Habits
Bird food type
Species Status
Not globally threatened.