The black-throated grosbeak is a seed-eating passerine bird in the tanager family Thraupidae.
Region
Atlantic Forest of southeastern South America
Typical Environment
Occurs primarily in the Atlantic Forest from southeastern Brazil into eastern Paraguay and northeastern Argentina. Favors humid forest edges, secondary woodland, thickets, and gallery forests, often near clearings or along rivers. It keeps to mid-story and understorey vegetation, moving between fruiting trees and seed-rich shrubs. It adapts reasonably well to semi-open, regenerating habitats but depends on nearby mature forest cover.
Altitude Range
0–1500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Despite the name 'grosbeak', this species is actually a tanager (family Thraupidae), not a cardinal. Its thick, powerful bill easily cracks hard seeds, and it supplements its diet with fruits and insects, especially in the breeding season. It is a shy bird that often stays in dense foliage, revealing itself more by its rich, whistled song than by appearance.
Temperament
secretive and wary
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually found singly, in pairs, or small family groups, often keeping to dense cover. Breeding pairs maintain territories and build a cup-shaped nest concealed in shrubs or low trees. Both parents participate in nest defense and feeding of young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a rich series of mellow, whistled phrases delivered from a concealed perch. Calls include sharp chips and rising whistles used for contact and alarm.
