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The trumpeter finch (Bucanetes githagineus) is a small passerine bird in the finch family, primarily found in desert regions of North Africa, southern Spain, and parts of Asia. It breeds from the Canary Islands to northern Africa, with occurrences in Egypt, Iraq, and various countries in Central Asia and India. There are four recognized subspecies, including one in the Canary Islands and another spread across North Africa and southeastern Spain.
This finch is characterized by a large head, thick bill, and varying plumage; males have a red bill and grey neck in summer, while winter males, females, and young birds appear duller. Their habitat includes deserts, steppes, and areas with sparse vegetation, often nesting on the ground or in shrubs.
Breeding occurs from February to June in monogamous pairs, with females constructing nests out of twigs and fibers, typically containing 4–6 eggs. Trumpeter finches mainly eat seeds and plants but will also consume insects. They can be resident or nomadic, forming flocks, especially outside the breeding season, and travel long distances to find water. In Spain, the population is bolstered by birds dispersing from North Africa.