Chestnut-throated Seedeater
NameChestnut-throated Seedeater
Common NameChestnut-throated Seedeater
Scientific NameSporophila ruficollis
FamilyThraupidae
Wingspan (cm)16
Length (cm)10.5
Weight (g)8.5
Plumage DetailsAdult males have a black head, upperparts, and upper breast, contrasting with a bright chestnut throat and a white lower breast and belly, often with a white wing bar. Females and immatures, like the bird pictured, are dull olive-brown on the upperparts, pale buffy-white on the underparts, and typically show a noticeable pale wing bar and a pale bill.
Vocalization / CallTheir vocalizations include high-pitched, thin, reedy 'tsip' or 'tsee' calls. The song is a simple, sweet series of notes, often delivered from a prominent perch.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, wetland
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeThis species is found in South America, primarily breeding in southern Brazil, Uruguay, Paraguay, and northeastern Argentina. It is migratory, with some populations moving north during the non-breeding season.
Identifying Featuressmall size, conical bill, sexual dimorphism, chestnut throat (males), pale wing bar (females/immatures)
Description
The Chestnut-throated Seedeater is a small, finch-like bird exhibiting strong sexual dimorphism. Males are strikingly patterned with a black head and a distinctive chestnut throat, while females and immatures are duller brown overall. They are typically found foraging for seeds in open grasslands and marshy areas.
