The variable seedeater is a passerine bird which breeds from southern Mexico through Central America to the Chocó of northwestern South America. The taxonomy is confusing, and it was formerly considered a subspecies of Sporophila americana. Even within the variable seedeater as presently defined, there are great variations in plumage.
Region
Central America and the Chocó (northwestern South America)
Typical Environment
Found from southern Mexico through Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panama into western Colombia (particularly the Chocó) and locally into adjacent areas. It favors open and semi-open lowlands with grasses and weeds, edges of wetlands, second growth, plantations, and roadsides. Frequently encountered in agricultural landscapes, especially rice fields, and along river margins. It often persists near human-modified habitats where seeding grasses are abundant.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
A small tanager-like seedeater, it ranges from southern Mexico through Central America to the Chocó of northwestern South America. Males show striking geographic variation in plumage, which historically led to taxonomic confusion with white-collared and other seedeaters. It thrives in disturbed habitats such as weedy fields and rice paddies, where it often forms flocks outside the breeding season.
Female, Pajaro Jumbo Reserve near Mindo, Ecuador
A male photographed near Panama City, Panama.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often forms small flocks outside the breeding season and mixes with other seedeaters in weedy fields. During breeding, males defend small territories and perform conspicuous song perches and display flights. Nests are small open cups placed low in grasses or shrubs; clutches are typically 2–3 eggs.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is variable and simple, a series of high, thin notes and short buzzy trills delivered from exposed perches. Calls include sharp tsip and soft, sibilant notes, often given in foraging flocks.
