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Overview
Double-collared seedeater

Double-collared seedeater

Wikipedia

The double-collared seedeater is a species of bird in the family Thraupidae.

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Distribution

Region

Eastern and southern South America

Typical Environment

Occurs widely from eastern Bolivia and central Brazil south through Paraguay and Uruguay into northern and central Argentina. It favors open and semi-open landscapes such as pastures, weedy fields, marsh edges, and shrubby savannas. It also uses agricultural edges, roadside grasslands, and abandoned lots in towns. Seasonal movements occur, with birds from the southernmost areas shifting north in the austral winter. Local abundance often peaks where grasses and sedges are seeding after rains or disturbance.

Altitude Range

0–2000 m

Climate Zone

Subtropical

Characteristics

Size10–12 cm
Wing Span16–20 cm
Male Weight0.011 kg
Female Weight0.01 kg
Life Expectancy6 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 2/5

Useful to know

The double-collared seedeater is a small tanager (family Thraupidae) known for the male’s neat black throat framed by a contrasting white neck collar. It often forms flocks in open country and readily follows seeding grasses. In parts of its range it undertakes seasonal movements, tracking seed abundance. It is sometimes targeted in the cagebird trade, so local protections may apply.

Gallery

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Female

Female

Behaviour

Temperament

social and active

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats

Social Behavior

Often seen in small flocks outside the breeding season, foraging low in grasses and weedy patches. Males sing from exposed perches during breeding, defending small territories. The nest is a small cup placed low in grasses or shrubs, typically with 2–3 eggs cared for by both parents.

Migratory Pattern

Partial migrant

Song Description

The male’s song is a series of bright, wheezy notes and buzzy trills delivered from prominent perches. Calls include thin tsip notes used to keep contact within foraging groups.

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