Certhidea

Certhidea is a genus of small passerine birds in the tanager family Thraupidae. The genus contains two species, both commonly known as warbler finches. These birds are endemic to the Galápagos Islands, where they are found on several of the islands. They are characterized by their slender, pointed bills, which are adapted for probing into crevices and gleaning insects from foliage.

The two species within the genus are the Galápagos warbler finch (Certhidea olivacea) and the mangrove warbler finch (Certhidea pulverulenta). Historically, these were considered a single species, but genetic and morphological studies have led to their separation. The Galápagos warbler finch is typically found in arid and semi-arid regions of the islands, while the mangrove warbler finch is more associated with coastal areas and mangrove swamps.

Warbler finches are primarily insectivorous, feeding on small invertebrates such as insects, spiders, and larvae. They forage actively, often flitting through branches and leaves in search of prey. Their song is a series of complex trills and whistles. They build cup-shaped nests, usually in low shrubs or cacti. Both sexes participate in incubation and feeding the young. The genus Certhidea is part of the diverse radiation of Darwin's finches, although they are somewhat distinct from the more well-known ground and tree finches due to their bill morphology and foraging behavior.