The Azores bullfinch, or São Miguel bullfinch, known locally as the priolo, is a passerine bird belonging to the true finch family. This plump bird, with its shorter wings and longer tail, is endemic to the island of São Miguel in the Azores. It measures 15–17 cm in length and weighs around 30 grams, with males being marginally larger than females. The plumage is more subdued than its Eurasian counterpart, featuring a black cap, face, wings, and tail, with the remainder of the body in shades of grey or pale grey-brown.
Males and females are almost indistinguishable, though males may show a faint pinkish hue on the belly and flanks. The Azores bullfinch can be recognized by its melancholic, flute-like whistle, which serves as its contact call.
This bird is found primarily in native laurisilva forests at elevations of 300–800 meters above sea level, particularly in the Serra da Tronqueira range and, seasonally, around Salto do Cavalo.
The Azores bullfinch is confined to São Miguel Island in the Azores, with its presence notably absent from the western end of the island.
The species exhibits seasonal movements within its range, tracking the availability of food sources throughout the year.
