Lesson's Seedeater
NameLesson's Seedeater
Common NameLesson's Seedeater
Scientific NameSporophila bouvronides
FamilyThraupidae
Wingspan (cm)16.5
Length (cm)10.5
Weight (g)9
Plumage DetailsAdult males have glossy black upperparts, head, and throat, contrasted by a prominent white collar that extends from the nape to the sides of the neck. The underparts are white, with some black streaking on the flanks and white patches visible on the wings. Females are duller, olive-brown above and buffy below.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of high-pitched, often buzzy or trilled notes, sometimes described as a sweet, rapid warble.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in northern South America, including parts of Colombia, Venezuela, the Guianas, and northern Brazil. It is also known as a vagrant to some Caribbean islands.
Identifying FeaturesMale's distinctive black and white plumage, Prominent white collar on male, Small size, Conical, seed-eating bill, White wing patches on male
Description
The Lesson's Seedeater is a small, sexually dimorphic passerine bird. Males are strikingly patterned in black and white, often found foraging for seeds in open grassy areas and forest edges. They are active and often seen in small flocks.
