Buntings and New World Sparrows (Emberizidae)

Carbonated Sierra-finch (Phrygilus carbonarius) - HBW 16, p. 607

French: Phrygile charbonnier German: Schwarzbrustämmerling Spanish: Yal Carbonero

Taxonomy: Emberiza carbonaria d’Orbigny and Lafresnaye, 1837, Patagonia.
Molecular-genetic studies indicate that genus belongs in tanager family (Thraupidae). Present species appears to be sister to P. fruticeti, and studies suggest that the two should be placed together in a separate genus, for which the name Rhopospina is available. Monotypic.

Distribution: Breeds in C Argentina from Córdoba, Mendoza, San Luís and W & SW Buenos Aires S to C & E Chubut. In non-breeding season ranges N to S Salta.