Sparifjárins

Sparifjárins, also known as the Icelandic winter finch, is a small passerine bird native to Iceland. This species belongs to the finch family (Fringillidae) and is closely related to the common redpoll (*Acanthis flammea*), though it is considered a distinct subspecies or a separate species by some ornithologists. Sparifjárins is primarily found in Iceland, where it inhabits open landscapes such as moors, heathlands, and coastal areas, often near human settlements.

The bird is characterized by its compact, stout body, short wings, and a relatively long tail. Its plumage is predominantly grayish-brown on the upperparts, with a distinctive pale stripe above the eye and a darker cap on the head. The underparts are lighter, often with a pinkish tint on the breast and flanks, particularly in males during the breeding season. Sparifjárins exhibits sexual dimorphism, with males typically being more brightly colored than females.

Sparifjárins is a seed-eater, feeding primarily on the seeds of grasses, sedges, and other low-growing plants. It is also known to visit bird feeders in urban and rural areas, particularly during harsh winters when natural food sources may be scarce. The species is well-adapted to Iceland’s cold climate, with a thick layer of downy feathers providing insulation.

Breeding occurs in spring and early summer, with nests built on the ground or in low vegetation. The female typically lays four to six eggs, which she incubates for about two weeks. Both parents participate in feeding the chicks, which fledge after around two weeks. Sparifjárins is not migratory, remaining in Iceland year-round, though some individuals may move to lower elevations during winter.

Conservation status for the sparifjárins is currently stable, with no major threats identified. Its population is well-regulated by natural factors such as food availability and predation. Due to its limited range and reliance on specific habitats, it is considered a key indicator species for the ecological health of Iceland’s open landscapes.