The Nicaraguan seed finch is a species of bird in the family Thraupidae. It is found in Costa Rica, Nicaragua and northwestern Panama.
Region
Central America (Costa Rica, Nicaragua, northwestern Panama)
Typical Environment
Occupies lowland wetlands, marshes, and the edges of lakes and sluggish rivers with dense stands of tall grasses and sedges. Also uses weedy fields, cane fields, rice paddies, and other early successional growth near water. Prefers areas with abundant seed-bearing grasses, often perching to sing from exposed reed tops. Tolerates some human-modified habitats so long as dense seed-rich cover remains.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This robust-billed seed-eater favors marsh edges and tall, rank grasses around lakes and slow rivers. Males are strikingly uniform black with a massive pale bill, while females are warm brown and more cryptic. It often follows seeding cycles of grasses and can be affected by trapping pressure in parts of its range. Formerly placed in Oryzoborus, it is now treated within Sporophila in the tanager family (Thraupidae).
Temperament
skulking in tall vegetation but conspicuous when singing
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with bounding, undulating hops over vegetation
Social Behavior
Usually found singly, in pairs, or small family groups; may aggregate loosely where grasses seed abundantly. Nests are cup-shaped and placed low in dense grasses or shrubs near water. Males sing persistently from exposed perches during breeding to defend small territories. Outside breeding, may move locally following seed availability.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of clear, sweet whistles and metallic notes with buzzy elements, delivered from reed tops or shrub crowns. Calls include sharp chips and thin tseet notes used to maintain contact in dense cover.
