Slate-colored Seedeater
NameSlate-colored Seedeater
Common NameSlate-colored Seedeater
Scientific NameSporophila schistacea
FamilyThraupidae
Wingspan (cm)14.5
Length (cm)10.5
Weight (g)10
Plumage DetailsAdult males have a black head, slate-gray upperparts, breast, and flanks, with a contrasting white lower belly and undertail-coverts. Their bill is bright yellow and conical. Females are dull olive-brown above, paler buffy-brown below, with a dusky bill.
Vocalization / CallThe song is a series of high-pitched, thin, somewhat squeaky whistles, often accelerating. Calls include a soft 'tseet' or 'chip' note.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in a discontinuous range across northern and western South America, including parts of Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Brazil, and the Guianas.
Identifying Featuresblack head (male), slate-gray body (male), bright yellow conical bill (male), white lower belly/vent (male), small size
Description
The Slate-colored Seedeater is a small, sexually dimorphic passerine found in South America. Males are striking with a black head, slate-gray body, and bright yellow bill, while females are duller olive-brown. They typically forage for seeds in dense undergrowth and forest edges.
