Remarks on biology, vocalisations and systematics of Urocynchramus pylzowi Przewalski (Aves, Passeriformes)

Abstract

Several field studies in the Qinghai Nanshan area (Qinghai Province, China) have added new findings to the scant knowledge about Przewalski´s Rosefinch Urocynchramus pylzowi Przewalski, 1876. The hitherto completely unknown vocalisations are described and used to clarify systematic relationships. Although one could argue for a relationship to Uragus sibiricus (Pallas), based on nearly identical auditory impression and sonagram structures of their songs, detailed measurements show significant differences in time and frequency parameters. Moreover a mtDNA analysis shows no close phylogenetic relationship to either of three major emberizid clades. These results support the hypothesis that Urocynchramus belongs in its own family, the Urocynchramidae.

The phylogenetic relationships of Przevalski's FinchUrocynchramus pylzowi, the most ancient Tibetan endemic passerine known to date

“…It differs in length and syntax from the flight song (Gebauer et al . ). The song is similar in auditory impression, and based on sonagram, to that of Uragus sibiricus as stated by Gebauer et al .…”

“…The song is similar in auditory impression, and based on sonagram, to that of Uragus sibiricus as stated by Gebauer et al . (). Notes and frequency range are similar in both species, but statistically different in other characters.…”

“…Song similarity to the Reed Bunting Emberiza schoeniclus has been suggested by Przewalski (), but Gebauer et al . () suggest this may refer to certain call types, as the song of the Reed Bunting is much shorter and much more stereotyped than that of U. pylzowi and the syntax of both differs considerably.…”

“…Its general behaviour, nest and eggs have been insufficiently described, and its peculiar acoustic display was described only recently (Gebauer et al . ).…”

“…These results were later confirmed by Gebauer et al . (), who also added bioacoustic and ecological arguments against a closer relationship of Urocynchramus to either buntings or finches. In the same year, Yang et al .…”