Galapagos Cactus Finch Facts

Name: Cactus Finch
Family: Thraupidae
Scientific Name: Geospiza scandens
Length: 12-14 cm
Weight: 20-24 g

Category: Darwin Finches
Number of Species: 13
Endemic Species: 13

Darwin Finches, or Galapagos Finches, are small land birds with generally dull black, brown or olive, often streaky, plumage; short tails; and short, rounded wings. Their bills vary greatly in size and shape (a fact which was instrumental in inspiring Charles Darwin's thinking in relation to the theory of evolution - and hence the name given to this fascinating group of species).

Identification:
Plumage characteristics similar to the ground finches but bill rather distinctive, being long and pointed and appearing slightly decurved. ADULT MALE: Wholly black with white-tipped undertail-coverts. FEMALE / IMMATURE: Brown and heavily streaked, particularly around the head and neck.

Small land bird, Galapagos Cactus Finch, standing on a rocky landscape