Buntings and New World Sparrows (Emberizidae)

Red-backed Sierra-finch (Phrygilus dorsalis) - HBW 16, p. 608

French: Phrygile à dos roux German: Braunmantelämmerling Spanish: Yal Dorsirrojo

Taxonomy: Phrygilus dorsalis Cabanis, 1883, Cerro Bayo, near snow-line, Tucumán, Argentina.
Molecular-genetic studies indicate that genus belongs in tanager family (Thraupidae). May form a superspecies with P. erythronotus, and has been suggested as being conspecific; hybridization between the two reported, although without specimen evidence or a detailed analysis. Recent molecular results indicate that this species (P. erythronotus not sampled) is sister to the “hooded” group (P. atriceps, P. punensis, P. gayi and P. patagonicus) and Sicalis; more study required. Monotypic.

Distribution: N Chile (Andes of Tarapacá and Antofagasta), SW Bolivia (S from Oruro) and NW Argentina (Jujuy, Salta, Tucumán and Catamarca).