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Overview
Cinnamon-rumped seedeater

Cinnamon-rumped seedeater

Wikipedia

The cinnamon-rumped seedeater is a passerine bird in the typical seedeater genus Sporophila.

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Distribution

Region

Mesoamerica

Typical Environment

Found from coastal and lowland Mexico south into parts of Central America, inhabiting weedy fields, brushy pastures, riparian edges, and marsh margins. It favors secondary growth and disturbed habitats with abundant seeding grasses. During the nonbreeding season it can move locally to track food availability. It is commonly encountered near agriculture, along levees, and in open scrub with scattered shrubs.

Altitude Range

0–1500 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size10–11 cm
Wing Span16–20 cm
Male Weight0.011 kg
Female Weight0.01 kg
Life Expectancy5 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

A small, seed-eating tanager, the cinnamon-rumped seedeater frequents grassy edges, weedy fields, and marshy scrub. Males are easily recognized by a sharp white collar and contrasting dark head, while females are warm brown overall. It often forms small flocks outside the breeding season and readily visits seeding grasses along roadsides and agricultural plots.

Gallery

Bird photo
Bird photo
Bird photo

Behaviour

Temperament

discreet and wary at close range

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats with brief undulations

Social Behavior

Often in pairs during breeding, but forms small loose flocks at other times, sometimes mixed with other seedeaters. Males sing from exposed perches such as fence lines or bush tops. Cup nests are placed low in grasses or shrubs, with both parents involved in care.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

A thin, sweet series of sibilant trills and buzzy notes, often delivered from a conspicuous perch. Calls are sharp, high tseet or tzip notes used to maintain contact within small groups.

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