Barbados bullfinch facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Barbados bullfinch
Conservation status
Least Concern (IUCN 3.1)
Scientific classification
Genus:	Loxigilla
Species:	barbadensis

The Barbados bullfinch (Loxigilla barbadensis) is a small seedeater bird. It lives only on the beautiful Caribbean island of Barbados. This makes it very special, as it's the only bird species that lives only on Barbados and nowhere else!

What's in a Name?

• The Barbados bullfinch's scientific name is Loxigilla barbadensis.
• Even though it's called a 'bullfinch', it's actually a type of seedeater.
• It used to be thought of as a relative of the Lesser Antillean bullfinch.
• That bird lives on islands near Barbados.
• On Barbados, people often call this bird a 'Sparrow' or 'Sparky'.

What Does It Look Like?

• The Barbados bullfinch is a small bird.
• It is about 14–15 centimeters (5.5–6 inches) long.
• Its back is a dark olive-grey color.
• Its wings are mostly brown.
• The feathers on its belly are greyish.
• The feathers under its tail are a tawny (orangey-brown) color.
• Both male and female birds look very similar.
• They have simple, twittering calls.
• Sometimes, they make a sharp trill sound.
• You can hear some of their calls here: [1].

Where Do They Live?

• The Barbados bullfinch is found only on the island of Barbados.
• They like to live in bushes and the low plants under trees in forests.
• These birds are very good at living near people.
• You can often find them in gardens and other places where humans live.

How Do They Make Nests?

• Barbados bullfinches build a round nest.
• It has an entrance on the side.
• They usually build their nests in a tree or a shrub.
• The female bird lays two or three eggs.
• The eggs have spots on them.

Amazing Bird Behavior

• Barbados bullfinches are known for being very clever and not shy.
• Scientists have studied these birds.
• They found that bullfinches living in cities on Barbados are better at solving problems.
• They also have stronger immune systems than birds living in the countryside.
• City bullfinches were also found to be bolder.
• But they were more afraid of new things than their country relatives.

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