saffron siskin Spinus siemiradzkii

Rare finch restricted to arid lowlands and foothills of western Ecuador and far northwestern Peru. Plumage is golden with black wings marked with yellow stripes; male has a dark hood. May overlap with the very similar Hooded Siskin in the foothills of the Andes, and birds seen in this region are not always identifiable. Saffron Siskin is slightly brighter on average, and male’s back is cleaner, lacking dusky markings. Usually seen in small flocks that feed mainly on seeds in trees, bushes, and tall grass.