The glaucous-blue grosbeak, also known as the indigo grosbeak, is a species of bird in the family Cardinalidae, the cardinals or cardinal grosbeaks. It is found in Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay.
Region
Southeastern South America
Typical Environment
Occurs in southern Brazil, Uruguay, northeastern Argentina, and eastern Paraguay. Prefers dense vegetation along waterways, gallery forests, forest edges, and overgrown pastures. Frequently uses second-growth thickets, bamboo stands, and shrubby riparian corridors. It is more common in humid lowlands but can reach foothills where cover remains. Human-modified habitats with hedgerows and scrub can also be used if sufficient cover exists.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Also called the indigo grosbeak, this species belongs to the cardinal family Cardinalidae. Males show a distinctive uniform glaucous-blue tone that looks grayish-blue in dull light, while females are warm brown and more secretive. It often keeps to dense cover along rivers and forest edges, making it easier to hear than to see. Its strong conical bill is adapted for cracking seeds, but it also takes insects and small fruits.
Temperament
skulking and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically found singly or in pairs, especially during the breeding season. Males sing from semi-concealed perches within dense shrubs. Nests are cup-shaped and placed low in thick cover, and the species is presumed monogamous. Outside breeding, it may join loose mixed flocks in suitable scrub.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Song is a soft, mellow series of whistles and brief warbled phrases, often delivered from within cover. Calls include sharp ticks and thin seep notes used for contact and alarm.
Plumage
Male largely uniform glaucous (slate- to grayish-blue) with slightly darker wings and tail; female and immature birds are warm brown with paler underparts and subtle mottling. Feathers appear smooth and even-toned rather than strongly patterned.
Diet
Feeds on a mix of grass and shrub seeds, small berries, and various insects such as beetles and caterpillars. The robust bill efficiently husks seeds and pods. Insects are more frequently taken in the breeding season, likely to meet protein needs. Occasional foraging includes gleaning from foliage and picking fallen seeds from the ground.
Preferred Environment
Forages low in dense shrubs, along hedgerows, riparian thickets, and forest edges. Often stays within shaded cover, emerging to feed at the margins of paths and clearings.
