Temminck's seedeater is a species of bird in the family Thraupidae.
Region
Atlantic Forest, eastern Brazil
Typical Environment
Found patchily through the Atlantic Forest of eastern Brazil, especially in forest edges, secondary growth, restinga scrub, and bamboo-dominated thickets. It frequents clearings, overgrown pastures, and shrublands near forest. During bamboo mast years it can appear locally common where seeding stands occur. It also uses riverine thickets and young regenerating forest. Human-modified landscapes with dense weedy grasses are occasionally used.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Temminck's seedeater is a small South American tanager closely tied to seeding events of bamboo in the Atlantic Forest. Its slightly decurved, stout bill is adapted to cracking tough grass and bamboo seeds. Habitat loss and fragmentation have reduced its populations, and it can wander seasonally to track food. It is named after the Dutch zoologist Coenraad Jacob Temminck.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with bounding arcs
Social Behavior
Often in pairs or small flocks outside the breeding season, sometimes aggregating where bamboo seeds are abundant. Males sing from exposed perches during breeding and defend small territories. The nest is a small cup placed low in shrubs or grasses, with typically 2–3 eggs.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
The song is a series of thin, tinkling trills and buzzy phrases, delivered persistently from a perch. Calls are sharp, high-pitched tsip notes used to keep contact within flocks.
