The least seedsnipe is a xerophilic species of bird in the Thinocoridae family.
Region
Southern South America
Typical Environment
Found widely in arid and semi-arid zones from coastal lowlands to inland steppes across Chile and Argentina, extending locally into Peru, Bolivia, Paraguay, and Uruguay. It favors sparse grasslands, scrubby steppe, stony plains, coastal dunes, and fallow fields with low vegetation. Often occurs near saline flats and open, sandy or gravelly substrates where it can blend in. Generally sedentary, but some populations shift locally in response to season and rainfall.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The least seedsnipe is a tiny, ground-dwelling shorebird relative adapted to dry, open habitats. Unlike most shorebirds, it feeds largely on seeds and plant matter and has a short, finch-like bill. It shows reversed sexual roles: females are brighter and may be polyandrous, while males incubate and care for the chicks. Its cryptic plumage and crouching behavior make it easy to overlook until it bursts into rapid, low flight.
Temperament
wary and inconspicuous
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low swift dashes
Social Behavior
Often seen singly, in pairs, or in small loose groups, especially outside the breeding season. Nests on the ground in a shallow scrape lined with plant material. Reversed sexual roles are typical: females court and may mate with more than one male, while males incubate and brood the chicks. Chicks are precocial and follow the male soon after hatching.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Vocalizations are soft, including thin whistles and trills delivered from the ground or during brief display flights. Calls are understated and can be hard to locate, aiding its camouflage. Females may give more carrying, advertising calls in the breeding season.
Plumage
Cryptic, finely mottled and barred sandy-brown upperparts with paler underparts and a clean whitish belly.
Diet
Primarily consumes seeds of grasses and low herbs, along with buds, small leaves, and flowers. Will take succulent plant material during dry periods. Insects and other small invertebrates are occasionally eaten, especially by chicks for protein. Feeds by pecking and gleaning on open ground and among sparse vegetation.
Preferred Environment
Forages in open steppe, sandy flats, coastal dunes, and fallow fields with scattered low plants. Often selects areas with bare patches and stony or sandy soils where seeds accumulate.
