Dubois's seedeater is a species of bird in the family Thraupidae. It is closely related to, and possibly better considered a subspecies of, the widespread yellow-bellied seedeater. The Dubois's seedeater is endemic to east-central Brazil, where it is found in a wide range of semi-open habitats.
Region
East-central Brazil
Typical Environment
Occupies semi-open habitats including savanna edges, weedy fields, pastures, scrubby caatinga margins, and edges of gallery woodland. Often near wetlands or damp grass where seed heads are abundant. Uses disturbed and secondary growth, road verges, and fallow farmland. Tolerant of mosaic landscapes with scattered shrubs and low trees, and commonly perches on tall grass stems or fences.
Altitude Range
0–1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Dubois's seedeater is a small grassland tanager of the genus Sporophila, a group known for rapid plumage evolution and frequent taxonomic revisions. It is often treated as closely related to, or a local form of, the yellow-bellied seedeater. Numbers can fluctuate locally as birds track seeding grasses after rains. Males may not acquire full adult plumage until after their first year.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often seen in small loose flocks outside the breeding season, sometimes mixed with other Sporophila. Pairs form during breeding, with the nest a small cup placed low in grass or shrubs. Males display and sing from exposed perches such as fence lines or tall stems.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
High-pitched, tinkling song with sharp intro notes followed by thin trills and buzzy phrases. Calls include crisp tsip notes given in flight or while foraging. Repertoire is variable between individuals.
