The rufous-rumped seedeater, also known as the grey-and-chestnut seedeater, is a species of bird in the family Thraupidae. It breeds in southern Paraguay, Argentina, and Uruguay. It migrates northward to Bolivia, the Pantanal and central Brazil. Its natural habitats are dry savanna, subtropical or tropical seasonally wet or flooded lowland grassland, and pastureland. It is threatened by habitat loss.
Region
Southern Cone to central Brazil
Typical Environment
Breeds in southern Paraguay, northern and northeastern Argentina, and Uruguay, using dry savannas, open grasslands, and lightly grazed pasture. During the non-breeding season it migrates north to Bolivia, the Pantanal, and central Brazil. It favors seasonally wet or flooded lowland grasslands with abundant seeding grasses. Edges of wetlands, gallery grasslands, and weedy fields are commonly used. It avoids dense forest and highly urbanized areas.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 800 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the grey-and-chestnut seedeater, this small tanager-like finch specializes on grass seeds in seasonally flooded landscapes. It breeds in southern South America and moves north in the austral winter to the Pantanal and central Brazil. Males show a distinctive rufous rump that contrasts with otherwise grey tones, aiding identification in mixed seedeater flocks. Habitat loss and grassland conversion threaten local populations.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with undulating flight
Social Behavior
Often forms small flocks outside the breeding season, frequently mixing with other Sporophila seedeaters. During breeding it becomes territorial, with males singing from exposed perches in grasses or low shrubs. Nests are small open cups placed low in dense grass or herbaceous vegetation, and pairs are typically monogamous for the season.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Male song is a bright, high-pitched series of twitters, trills, and buzzes delivered from a perch. Calls are thin tseep notes used for contact within flocks. Song varies between individuals but remains simple compared to many other passerines.
