Morelet's seedeater is a passerine bird in the typical seedeater genus Sporophila.
Region
Mesoamerica
Typical Environment
Found from the Gulf–Caribbean slope of southeastern Mexico through Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, and into Costa Rica and western Panama. Prefers open to semi-open country with tall grasses and weedy forbs, including pasture edges, fallow fields, canal margins, and marshy thickets. Often near water and along riparian corridors, but avoids dense interior forest. Common in second growth, plantations, and rural landscapes with scattered shrubs. Frequently occurs in human-modified habitats where seeding grasses are abundant.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Morelet's seedeater is a small granivorous tanager of grassy and weedy habitats from eastern Mexico through much of Central America. Males show a striking white collar and black throat that contrast with their brown upperparts, while females are warm brown overall. It was recently split from the White-collared Seedeater complex, with this species occupying the Gulf–Caribbean slope. It readily exploits disturbed areas and edges, often appearing around farms, canals, and marshy fields.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, bounding flights over grasses
Social Behavior
Forms pairs during the breeding season and small flocks or loose feeding groups at other times. Builds a small cup nest low in grasses or shrubs. Clutch size is typically 2–3 eggs, and both parents attend the young. Outside breeding, often associates with other small seedeaters and grassland birds.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of thin, sweet whistles and buzzy trills delivered from exposed perches. Calls include dry ticks and chips, often given in rapid sequences. Males sing persistently during breeding to advertise territory and attract mates.
