The tawny-bellied seedeater is a bird species in the family Thraupidae. It is found in Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. Its natural habitats are dry savanna and subtropical or tropical seasonally wet or flooded lowland grassland.
Region
Southern South America
Typical Environment
Occurs from eastern Bolivia and central Brazil south through Paraguay to northern and central Argentina and Uruguay. Favors dry savannas, seasonally flooded lowland grasslands, marsh edges, pastures, and weedy fields. Often found along riverine islands and wet meadows where seeding grasses are abundant. It may move locally with rainfall and seed availability, occasionally appearing in agricultural landscapes.
Altitude Range
0–1000 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
A small grassland tanager, the tawny-bellied seedeater thrives in open, grassy habitats across southern South America. Males and females can look quite different, with males often showing richer contrast than the more uniformly brownish females. It often gathers in small flocks outside the breeding season and readily uses pasture edges and rice fields. Its reliance on grass seeds makes it sensitive to grassland management and mowing regimes.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often in pairs during the breeding season but forms small flocks at other times, sometimes mixed with other seedeaters. Males sing from exposed perches in grasslands and marsh edges. Nests are small cups hidden low in tussocks or shrubs, and both parents contribute to care.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
A bright, high-pitched series of thin whistles and buzzy trills, often delivered from a perch. Calls include short chips and tsip notes, especially in flight. Song pace is crisp and carries over open grass.
