Scientific name Phrygilus Higher classification American Sparrows Order Passerine | Family Thraupidae Phylum Chordata Rank Genus | |
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Lower classifications Patagonian sierra finch, Grey‑hooded sierra finch, Mourning sierra finch, Plumbeous sierra finch, Ash‑breasted sierra finch | ||
Phrygilus fruticeti
Phrygilus is a genus of mainly Andean seed-eating tanagers commonly known as sierra finches. Phrygilos means finch in Ancient Greek. Sometimes classified in the bunting and American sparrow family Emberizidae, more recent studies have shown them to belong in the Thraupidae. The genus appears to be polyphyletic consisting of at least three distinct lineages which in future may need to be split into separate genera.
Contents
Species list
Group 1 - The "hooded" group. Related to yellow finches Sicalis
Group 2 - Upperparts mostly grey, underparts white. Sexes similar. Related to a clade containing both the "hooded" group and Sicalis olivascens
Group 3 - male plumage grey or dull brown, females streaky. Related to Haplospiza
Group 4 - Yellow bill with grey/black underparts.
