Black-and-white Seedeater
NameBlack-and-white Seedeater
Common NameBlack-and-white Seedeater
Scientific NameSporophila luctuosa
FamilyThraupidae
Wingspan (cm)16.5
Length (cm)10.5
Weight (g)9
Plumage DetailsAdult males have a glossy black head, back, wings, and tail, contrasting sharply with pure white underparts from the throat to the undertail coverts. They also exhibit a prominent white patch on the wing. The bill is pale, often whitish or bluish-grey. Females are duller, with olive-brown upperparts and buffy-white underparts.
Vocalization / CallThe call is typically a series of high-pitched, often buzzy or trilled notes, sometimes described as a thin 'tsee-tsee-tsee' or a more complex, warbling song.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, forest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in South America, primarily along the eastern slopes of the Andes and adjacent lowlands, ranging from Colombia and Venezuela south through Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia, extending into parts of western Brazil.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size, Male's striking black and white plumage, Pale, conical bill, White wing patch on male, Prefers grassy and open habitats
Description
This small, striking seedeater is characterized by the male's bold black and white plumage. It typically forages for seeds in grassy areas and open habitats, often found in flocks outside the breeding season.
