Charles Darwin
Red Siskin (Spinus cucullatus)

Red Siskin

Spinus cucullatus

EN Endangered

Very high risk of extinction

Source: IUCN Red List

About the Red Siskin

The red siskin (Spinus cucullatus) is a small passerine bird. This finch is a resident breeding bird in tropical South America in northern Colombia and northern Venezuela (where it's called "cardenalito"). The introduced population on Trinidad is believed to be extinct, with no sightings since 1960.

Key Facts

  • Endangered - this species needs our protection.
  • Rarely spotted - fewer than 100 recorded observations!

Classification

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the scientific name of the Red Siskin?

The scientific name of the Red Siskin is Spinus cucullatus.

Is the Red Siskin endangered?

The Red Siskin is classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List.

How many Red Siskin sightings have been recorded?

66 observations of the Red Siskin have been recorded on iNaturalist.

66 observations on iNaturalist

Featured in Beat Darwin

The Red Siskin was Beat Darwin's Animal of the Day on challenge #215 — October 12, 2026. Can you identify it in 3 attempts?

Play Today's Challenge See all past Animals of the Day →