The Large Cactus-Finch is a distinctive member of Darwin's Finches, endemic to specific islands in the Galápagos. It is characterized by its large, pointed bill, specifically adapted for feeding on the large fruits and flowers of prickly pear cacti.
Where to spot
Endemic to the Galápagos Islands, found on Española and Genovesa islands. Primarily inhabits arid lowland zones where large prickly pear cacti are prevalent.
How to spot
Look for its large size among finches and its distinctively long, pointed bill. Observe it feeding on cacti or, on Genovesa, interacting with boobies. Males are black, females streaky brown. Listen for its loud, clear, somewhat musical song, often deeper than the Common Cactus-Finch.
When to spot
Active year-round. Best observed during morning hours when cacti are flowering or fruiting, and birds are actively feeding.
Where to spot
Endemic to the Galápagos Islands, found on Española and Genovesa islands. Primarily inhabits arid lowland zones where large prickly pear cacti are prevalent.
How to spot
Look for its large size among finches and its distinctively long, pointed bill. Observe it feeding on cacti or, on Genovesa, interacting with boobies. Males are black, females streaky brown. Listen for its loud, clear, somewhat musical song, often deeper than the Common Cactus-Finch.
When to spot
Active year-round. Best observed during morning hours when cacti are flowering or fruiting, and birds are actively feeding.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
On Genovesa Island, this finch has developed a remarkable 'pecking' behavior where it extracts ticks from the feathers of Nazca Boobies, providing a unique cleaning service in exchange for a protein meal.
We use cookies to improve your experience on our website. Essential cookies are necessary for basic functionality, while analytical cookies help us understand how visitors use our website so we can improve it.
Cookie Preferences
Customize your privacy settings
Choose which cookies you want to allow. Necessary cookies are always enabled for the basic functionality of the website. You can always change your preferences later via the cookie settings in the footer.
Necessary Cookies
These cookies are essential for the website to function properly and cannot be disabled.
Analytics Cookies
Help us understand how visitors use our website, so we can improve it.