The dull-coloured grassquit is a small bird. It is recognized as a tanager closely related to Darwin's finches.
Region
Northern Andes and northern South America
Typical Environment
Occurs in foothills and lowlands of the northern Andes and adjacent tropical regions, using shrubby edges, secondary growth, and open woodland. It is frequently found along roadsides, in overgrown fields, and in agricultural mosaics such as coffee and cacao plantations. The species also ventures into gardens and disturbed scrub where grasses are abundant. It generally keeps low, foraging near the ground or in low shrubs and weeds. Local densities can be high where seed-bearing grasses are prolific.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
A small tanager now placed near Darwin’s finches, the dull-coloured grassquit is plain in appearance but highly adaptable. It favors weedy edges and second growth where it takes grass seeds with its short, conical bill. Pairs often stay together year-round, and the male delivers thin, high trills from exposed perches. Its tolerance of disturbed habitats helps keep it common in much of its range.
Temperament
skulking but adaptable
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, bounding flights
Social Behavior
Usually found singly, in pairs, or small groups, and sometimes joins loose flocks of other seedeaters in weedy areas. Pairs often maintain small territories, especially during breeding. The nest is a small cup placed low in dense vegetation, and both sexes participate in nesting duties.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song consists of thin, high-pitched trills and short buzzy phrases delivered from low perches. Calls are sharp, sibilant tss or tsee notes that can be easy to overlook in background insect noise.
