The Antioquia brushfinch (Atlapetes blancae) is a medium-sized passerine bird endemic to Colombia, inhabiting montane shrubland and forest edges in the northern Andes. Known only from a few collected specimens, it was long considered extinct until its rediscovery in 2018 near San Pedro de los Milagros. Recent surveys estimate a total population of up to 405 individuals, but the number of mature individuals remains critically low, and its habitat is highly fragmented. Classified as Critically Endangered, it faces severe threats from habitat loss and fragmentation, with no targeted conservation programs currently in place.
| Common name | Antioquia brushfinch |
| Scientific name | Atlapetes blancae |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Passerellidae |
| Genus | Atlapetes |
| Discovery | 20th century (described in 2007 by T. M. Donegan) |
| Identification | Grey plumage, rufous crown, black facial mask, small white wing patch |
| Lifespan | Estimated 5-10 years |
| Range | Colombia (Antioquia Department) |
| Migration | Non-migratory |
| Habitat | Montane shrubland and forest edges, elevations of 2,400-2,830 m |
| Diet | Omnivorous; feeds on seeds, fruits, and insect larvae |
| Conservation status | Critically Endangered |
| Population | Estimated up to 405 individuals, but mature population remains low |
Discovery
The Antioquia brushfinch was first described based on three museum specimens collected in the 20th century, with the most recent confirmed specimen dating back to 1971. For decades, no further observations were recorded, leading to the widespread assumption that the species had gone extinct.
In 2007, ornithologist Thomas M. Donegan formally described A. blancae as a distinct species, differentiating it from related taxa such as the slaty brushfinch (Atlapetes schistaceus) and the white-winged brushfinch (Atlapetes leucopterus), both of which share morphological similarities. Donegan’s research emphasized differences in plumage coloration, biometric measurements, and geographic isolation. Despite initial skepticism from some taxonomists, major ornithological authorities, including BirdLife International and the South American Classification Committee (SACC), formally recognized A. blancae as a valid species.
Extensive efforts to locate a surviving population remained unsuccessful for decades. However, in 2018, a small population was rediscovered near San Pedro de los Milagros, Antioquia, Colombia. This confirmation of its continued existence led to renewed conservation interest. Subsequent surveys have expanded the known range, though the species remains highly localized and rare.
Further research is required to better understand its population structure, genetic diversity, and ecological interactions. Given its fragmented range and ongoing habitat loss, additional field studies and conservation efforts will be critical for the long-term survival of the species.
Identification
The Antioquia brushfinch is a medium-sized passerine, measuring approximately 18-20 centimeters (7-7.9 inches) in length. Its weight remains unconfirmed but is estimated to be 30-40 grams (1-1.4 ounces), consistent with related Atlapetes species. While its wingspan is unknown, observations suggest that it primarily moves in short bursts through dense vegetation, indicating that its flight is likely adapted for maneuvering within shrubland habitats rather than long-distance travel.
The species is characterized by slate-grey plumage, with a slightly darker tone on the wings and flight feathers. A black facial mask extends from just in front of the eye to the back of the ear coverts. The forehead, crown, and nape are bright rufous, creating a stark contrast with the grey body. A small but noticeable white wing patch is present. The underparts are pale greyish-white, with a fine, indistinct dark moustachial stripe along the face.
There is no known sexual dimorphism, with males and females appearing identical in size and coloration. Juveniles have not been well-documented, but they are likely to exhibit duller plumage, less pronounced facial markings, and a less vibrant rufous crown, similar to juveniles of other Atlapetes species. No confirmed observations exist regarding molt patterns or seasonal plumage changes.
Vocalization
Recent field research has provided the first documented descriptions of the species’ vocalizations. A 2019 study recorded six distinct song phrases and 22 call notes, though the full range of its vocal repertoire remains unknown. These vocalizations are believed to play a role in territory defense and individual communication. While no public recordings exist, the song structure is likely comparable to other Atlapetes species, featuring melodic whistles and high-pitched calls. Further research is needed to analyze potential regional or individual variations in vocal patterns.
Range
The Antioquia brushfinch is endemic to Colombia, with a highly restricted range in the northern Andes, specifically within the Antioquia Department. Historically, the species was known only from the Llano de Ovejas plateau, based on three museum specimens collected in the 20th century. After decades of no confirmed sightings, it was rediscovered in 2018 near San Pedro de los Milagros during targeted surveys.
Recent studies have expanded the known distribution of A. blancae. As of 2024, the species has been documented at seven localities within a total of 322 hectares of suitable habitat. However, its range remains highly fragmented, and surveys suggest that the population is still critically low.
There is no evidence of migration or long-distance dispersal. Like most Atlapetes species, it is presumed to be sedentary, remaining in the same general area throughout the year.
Habitat
The Antioquia brushfinch primarily inhabits shrubland and forest edge habitats within montane ecosystems at elevations between 2,400 and 2,830 meters (7,900-9,300 feet) above sea level. Unlike earlier assumptions that it required undisturbed montane forest, recent field research suggests that it shows a preference for shrub-dominated areas and may be more adaptable to secondary growth than previously thought.
Despite this adaptability, much of its historical habitat has been lost due to deforestation, primarily for agriculture and cattle grazing. The remaining habitat is highly fragmented, and the species’ ability to persist in further degraded landscapes remains uncertain. Continued habitat loss and fragmentation pose significant threats to its survival, making habitat preservation a priority for conservation efforts.
Behavior
The Antioquia brushfinch is a shrubland specialist, primarily inhabiting dense low to mid-level vegetation in montane forests. It has been observed moving through vegetation in short bursts, an adaptation that may help it navigate its fragmented habitat. Individuals are typically seen alone or in pairs, and the species does not appear to form large flocks, similar to other Atlapetes species.
The first descriptions of its vocalizations documented six distinct song phrases and 22 call notes, though its full vocal repertoire remains unknown. The calls are believed to play a role in territory defense and individual communication.
Breeding
No confirmed nesting sites have been documented for the Antioquia brushfinch, and its breeding biology remains poorly understood. However, based on related Atlapetes species, it is expected to build cup-shaped nests in dense shrubbery and lay two to three eggs per clutch. The breeding season is unknown but may be linked to seasonal rainfall, as seen in other montane bird species. Further research is needed to confirm its nesting behavior, reproductive success rates, and parental care strategies.
Lifespan
The lifespan of the Antioquia brushfinch is still undocumented, but recent population studies suggest that the species may have a higher survival rate than previously thought, given the revised population estimate. Based on other brushfinches, individuals likely live between 5 and 10 years in the wild.
Diet
The Antioquia brushfinch is an omnivore, feeding on a combination of seeds, fruits, and insect larvae. Field observations confirm that it forages primarily on the ground and within low to mid-level vegetation, actively searching for food among shrubs and dense undergrowth. Its feeding behavior suggests a flexible diet, allowing it to exploit a range of food sources available in its fragmented habitat.
The species’ reliance on both plant and animal matter indicates that seasonal variations in food availability may influence its foraging patterns. However, further research is needed to determine specific dietary preferences and whether it targets particular plant species or insect groups.
Threats and conservation
The Antioquia brushfinch is classified as Critically Endangered, with a highly restricted range and an extremely small population. Despite its rediscovery in 2018, it remains one of the rarest birds in the world. Initial post-rediscovery surveys documented fewer than 20 individuals across four sites, but more recent 2024 research expanded the known range to seven localities, with an estimated total population of up to 405 individuals. However, the number of mature individuals remains significantly lower, posing a serious risk of genetic bottlenecks and localized extinctions.
The primary threat to A. blancae is habitat loss and fragmentation, driven by deforestation for agriculture, cattle grazing, and human settlement expansion. The montane shrubland and forest edges it inhabits have been steadily degraded, with much of the remaining habitat now highly fragmented. Continued land conversion limits its ability to expand beyond isolated pockets of suitable terrain.
While recent field research has provided new insights into its population size, habitat use, and vocalizations, the species remains poorly understood. The Antioquia brushfinch is not currently the focus of any species-specific conservation program, though some of its habitat falls within broader regional conservation efforts. The lack of targeted protection measures increases its vulnerability to environmental disturbances.
To ensure its survival, conservation efforts must prioritize habitat protection, restoration, and population monitoring. Future strategies may include land conservation agreements, habitat corridor development, and possibly ex-situ conservation, such as captive breeding or population reinforcement programs. Long-term ecological research is also needed to clarify its population trends and habitat requirements.
Given its small population and restricted range, immediate conservation action is necessary to prevent further decline. Continued monitoring, habitat preservation, and proactive management will be critical in securing the future of the Antioquia brushfinch.
Similar species
Several Atlapetes species share morphological similarities with the Antioquia brushfinch (Atlapetes blancae), leading to past taxonomic debates. While A. blancae is distinguishable by its unique combination of grey plumage, a rufous crown, a black facial mask, and a small white wing patch, other brushfinches in Colombia and neighboring regions exhibit overlapping traits. The following species are the most relevant comparisons based on range and appearance:
Slaty brushfinch (Atlapetes schistaceus)
The slaty brushfinch is one of the closest relatives of A. blancae, sharing a predominantly grey coloration. However, it differs by having a more uniform dark grey body, a bold black facial pattern, and a more defined moustachial stripe. Unlike A. blancae, it lacks a distinct rufous crown and is found at higher elevations in the Andes. Despite these differences, the two species can appear similar in certain lighting conditions.
White-winged brushfinch (Atlapetes leucopterus)
The white-winged brushfinch is strikingly similar in plumage to A. blancae, and the two were historically considered closely related. Both species share a grey body, black facial markings, and a rufous crown, but A. leucopterus has a more pronounced white wing patch and slightly different biometric characteristics. The most significant distinction is their geographical separation, as the white-winged brushfinch is found in Ecuador, about 700 km (450 mi) south of the known range of A. blancae.
Yellow-breasted brushfinch (Atlapetes latinuchus)
The yellow-breasted brushfinch overlaps with A. blancae in range and has a similarly rufous crown, making it another potential source of confusion. However, its underparts are bright yellow, contrasting sharply with the pale greyish-white belly of A. blancae. Additionally, A. latinuchus lacks the small white wing patch found in A. blancae. Despite these differences, both species share similar forest-edge habitats in Colombia.
Future outlook
The rediscovery of the Antioquia brushfinch in 2018 was a rare but significant event in ornithology, proving that even species thought to be extinct can persist in fragmented habitats. While initial post-rediscovery surveys suggested an extremely small population of fewer than 20 individuals, more recent research has expanded its known range to seven localities, with a total population estimate of up to 405 individuals. However, the number of adult individuals remains critically low, reinforcing its Critically Endangered status.
At Planet of Birds, we have long recognized the taxonomic and conservation challenges surrounding A. blancae. The species’ validity was once debated due to its morphological similarities with other Atlapetes species, particularly A. leucopterus and A. schistaceus. However, field research has since confirmed its distinctiveness, solidifying its status as a valid species.
Despite these advances, the core issue remains unchanged – the species is exceptionally rare, its habitat is shrinking, and no targeted conservation programs exist. Habitat fragmentation continues to limit population expansion, and its long-term survival remains uncertain. While its ability to persist in some secondary growth areas offers a glimmer of hope, conservation efforts must focus on protecting remaining shrubland, restoring degraded habitat, and ensuring connectivity between populations.
In practical conservation terms, A. blancae remains a high-risk species with limited immediate intervention options. Its rediscovery and new population estimates should not create false optimism – without sustained habitat protection and active conservation measures, its future remains precarious. The Antioquia brushfinch serves as a case study in species persistence but also highlights the urgent need for proactive conservation before species reach such critical population levels.
The coming years will determine whether A. blancae becomes a true conservation success story or another example of a species rediscovered too late to save. Its survival depends on immediate action, not just further study.
Further reading:
- S. Chaparro-Herrera, J. P. Gomez, M, Restrepo Arias, J. M. Ponciano (2024). Population Estimates and Sex Ratio of the Critically Endangered Antioquia Brushfinch Atlapetes Blancae. Cambridge University Press.
- M. Díaz-Vallejo, S. Chaparro-Herrera, A. Lopera-Salazar, M. Castaño-Díaz, R. Correa, J. L. Parra. (2023). Use of Acoustic Monitoring to Estimate Occupancy of the Antioquia Brushfinch (Atlapetes Blancae), a Critically Endangered Species, in San Pedro de los Milagros, Antioquia. Journal of Field Ornithology.
- S. Chaparro-Herrera, M. Hernández Schmidt, A. Lopera-Salazar (2021). Notes on the Diet and Habitat of Antioquia Brushfinch Atlapetes Blancae (Passerellidae).
- R. Correa Peña, S. Chaparro-Herrera, A. Lopera-Salazar, J. L. Parra (2019). Rediscovery of the Antioquia Brushfinch Atlapetes Blancae.