The plain-colored seedeater is a species of bird in the family Thraupidae.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs along the Andean cordillera from northern South America southward, frequenting open shrubby slopes, high-elevation grasslands (páramo and puna), and edges of Polylepis groves. It also uses disturbed areas such as pastures, field margins, and weedy fallows. Birds are typically seen in small groups moving through low vegetation and along stony hillsides. Local upslope and downslope movements follow seasonal food availability.
Altitude Range
1500–4500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The plain-colored seedeater is a small Andean tanager that thrives in high-elevation scrub, grasslands, and agricultural edges. Males are mostly slate-gray while females are browner and more subtly marked, making pairs easy to overlook. They often form small flocks outside the breeding season and can be seen foraging quietly in weedy patches. Their stout conical bill is specialized for cracking small grass seeds.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often in pairs or small flocks outside breeding season, sometimes joining mixed seedeater groups in weedy fields. Nests are cup-shaped and placed low in shrubs or grasses. Pairs are likely monogamous, with both adults attending the nest. Breeding tends to track wet seasons when seed and small arthropod availability peaks.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
A thin, tinkling series of chips and trills delivered from exposed perches or low shrubs. Calls are soft, metallic tsip notes used to keep contact within small flocks.
Plumage
Plain, smooth-looking plumage with minimal patterning; males largely uniform slate-gray, females brownish with subtle streaking or mottling on the underparts.
Diet
Primarily small grass and weed seeds, which it husks efficiently with its stout bill. During the breeding season it supplements with small insects and other arthropods for protein. It also takes buds and tender plant material when seeds are scarce.
Preferred Environment
Feeds low in seedy grasses, along weedy field edges, and in open scrub. Often forages on or near the ground, hopping between tussocks and stones to pick seeds.
