Band-tailed Seedeater
NameBand-tailed Seedeater
Common NameBand-tailed Seedeater
Scientific NameCatamenia analis
FamilyThraupidae
Wingspan (cm)19
Length (cm)13
Weight (g)14
Plumage DetailsMales have a slate-gray head, nape, and upperparts, fading to a paler gray on the underparts. The wings and tail are darker, often blackish, with a prominent white band across the base of the outer tail feathers. Many individuals, like the one pictured, display rufous or brownish flanks. The bill is bright yellow. Females are duller and brownish with streaking.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a high-pitched, thin 'tseet' or 'tsip' call, often given in flight. The song is a rapid series of high-pitched trills and whistles.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, wetland, urban, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the Andes mountains and adjacent lowlands of South America, ranging from southern Colombia south through Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, to northern Chile and northwestern Argentina.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size, Bright yellow, conical bill, Slate-gray head and body (male), Prominent white band on tail, Rufous flanks (in some individuals/subspecies)
Description
A small, stocky finch-like bird, typically found in open, shrubby habitats of the Andes. Males are characterized by their slate-gray plumage, bright yellow bill, and a distinctive white band on the tail, often showing rufous flanks.
