White-winged Snowfinch

Montifringilla nivalis

(M. n. alpicola)

Armenian Name:	Ձյան ճնճղուկ

See Plate 57 for White-winged Snowfinch and other similar species

Resident Status:	Year-round resident
Abundance:	Uncommon
Length:	17 cm, Wing Span:34-38 cm
Distribution Map:	Map 334.
Description:	Bold black, gray-brown, and white pattern.
Adult:	Black primaries contrast with white innerwing in flight. Gray-brown head and back. Bold white sides to black central tail and uppertail coverts.
Adult (Breeding):	Mostly blackish bill. Male has a more distinct black chin patch than female.
Adult (Non-breeding):	Both sexes have a faint chin patch and dark-tipped pale bill.
Juvenile:	Similar to non-breeder, but more uniform yellow-brown, especially on innerwing. Brownish outerwing and central tail.
Behavior:	Gregarious; forms large feeding flocks in alpine meadows after breeding season.
Habitat:	High mountain slopes with meadows and rocky areas.
Food:	Seeds, small invertebrates.
Nest:	Cup of grass and hair in rock crevice or hole.
Eggs:	23 mm, 4-5, white.