Region

Northern South America

Typical Environment

Occurs mainly in Colombia with extension into eastern Panama, favoring semi-open habitats. It uses dry and moist forest edges, secondary growth, thorn scrub, gallery woodland, and agricultural mosaics with scattered trees. The species adapts well to human-altered landscapes, including pastures, orchards, and rural gardens. It avoids dense interior rainforest but regularly forages along edges and clearings.

Altitude Range

0–1600 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Temperament

social and active

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats with swift, direct flight

Social Behavior

Usually found in pairs or small flocks, sometimes gathering in larger groups at feeding sites. Monogamous pairs nest in cavities such as tree holes, fence posts, or abandoned nests of other species. Clutches are typically several white eggs, and both parents attend the young.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Calls are high-pitched chips and twittering notes exchanged constantly within flocks. The song is a fast series of thin, ringing notes delivered in short bursts, used for contact and cohesion.

Diet

Feeds mainly on small seeds, grass seeds, and the seeds of weedy plants. Also takes soft fruits, berries, and flower buds, and occasionally nectar. It may visit crops and orchards to exploit seeding or fruiting plants.

Preferred Environment

Forages in scrub, hedgerows, forest edges, and open woodland, as well as agricultural fields and pastures with scattered trees. Often feeds quietly in the canopy or in seeding grasses at low heights.