Socotra golden-winged grosbeak facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Socotra golden-winged grosbeak |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Rhynchostruthus
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| Species: |
socotranus
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| Synonyms | |
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Rhynchostruthus socotranus socotranus |
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The Socotra golden-winged grosbeak (Rhynchostruthus socotranus) is a special type of finch. It lives only on Socotra Island. This island is in the Indian Ocean, near the country of Yemen.
For a long time, scientists thought this bird was the only one of its kind. But now, they usually see it as one of three different species. The Socotra golden-winged grosbeak is just the one found on Socotra. There are also the Arabian golden-winged grosbeak and the Somali golden-winged grosbeak.
What Does It Look Like?
Male Socotra golden-winged grosbeaks are mostly grey-brown. They have a black beak and a dark head. A black "mask" covers their eyes. They also have big white patches on their cheeks. Their wings and tail have large, bright yellow spots.
Female birds look a lot like the males. However, their colors are a bit less bright. Young birds, called juveniles, have stripes. They do not have the special head pattern that adult birds have.
Where Does It Live and How Is It Doing?
The Socotra golden-winged grosbeak can be found in many places on Socotra. It lives from the mountains all the way down to the sea. This bird usually lives in dry areas. These areas have lots of bushes and trees. Common plants there include spurges (Euphorbia), acacias (Acacia), and juniper (Juniperus). The birds mostly eat the fruits from these plants.
Scientists believe there are about 6,500 adult birds. Even though they only live on one island, their future seems safe. Because of this, the IUCN (a group that tracks animal populations) says this bird is of "least concern". This means it is not in danger of disappearing.
