The slate-coloured seedeater is a bird species in the family Thraupidae.
Region
Central America and northern South America
Typical Environment
Occurs from Panama south through the Chocó and Andean foothill margins into northern South America, with a broad presence in the Amazon Basin and adjacent lowlands. It favors edges of humid lowland forests, river islands, second-growth scrub, and weedy grasslands. The species often follows seeding cycles of grasses and other pioneer plants. It tolerates moderately disturbed habitats but is scarce in dense interior forest. Local movements may track food availability along river corridors and floodplains.
Altitude Range
0–1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The slate-coloured seedeater is a small tanager of open and semi-open habitats, especially weedy fields, river edges, and forest borders. Males are a distinctive uniform slate-gray, while females are warm brown, making pairs easy to separate in the field. Like many Sporophila, it is often seen in small flocks outside the breeding season and can concentrate where grasses are seeding. Trapping pressure affects some seedeaters, but this species remains relatively widespread.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Outside the breeding season it often forms small flocks or mixes with other seedeaters in weedy fields. During breeding, pairs defend small territories and build a cup nest low in shrubs or tall grasses. Both parents typically participate in caring for the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
The male’s song is a series of clear, thin whistles and short trills delivered from exposed perches. Calls are sharp chips used to maintain contact within small groups.
