Trumpeter Finch

Bucanetes githagineus (Lichtenstein, 1823)

		male
2011-04-26 Kokesem well, Ustyurt.	© Zhaskairat Nurmukhambetov

Distribution

Breeds and occurs on migration in mountains of Central Kyzylkum desert (Arystanbeltau, Beltau, Aktau and Takhtatau). On Mangyshlak (Western Karatau ridge) the small flock and mating birds were observed on May 1st, 1993. One bright male together with two Mongolian Finches was noticed on watering-place on well near Kanshengel on May 16th, 2001; that indicates on possibility of breeding in more northern areas.

Biology

Rare breeding migrant. Inhabits the foothills and cliff slopes of low mountains with sparse vegetation, at distance 400-450 m from water. Nest is located in rocks; is built from the grass stems; and is lined with thin grass leaves. Clutch of 5 eggs is laid in April – May. Both parents incubate clutch. Nestlings and broods of self-supporting juveniles observed in mid-June. Probably rears two broods reared per season. The biology of this bird is not well explored.

Subspecies

References

Gavrilov E. I., Gavrilov A. E. "The Birds of Kazakhstan". Almaty, 2005. Э.И.Гаврилов. "Фауна и распространение птиц Казахстана". Алматы, 1999. "Птицы Казахстана" том 5. "Наука". Алма-Ата, 1974.