Sporophila atrirostris
The Black-billed Seed Finch, *Sporophila atrirostris*, is a striking member of the Thraupidae family, known for its remarkably large, conical black bill, which gives the species its name and sets it apart from many of its smaller-billed congeners. Measuring approximately 12.5-13 cm (5 inches) in length, adult males are entirely glossy black, creating a stark contrast with their surroundings. Females, in contrast, exhibit a more subdued olive-brown plumage above and paler yellowish-brown below...
Found primarily in humid foothill and lowland forests, forest edges, clearings, secondary growth, and bamboo thickets. It typically inhabits elevations between 500 and 1500 meters in the Andes and adjacent lowlands.
Primarily granivorous, feeding on a wide variety of grass seeds and other hard seeds, which their robust bill is perfectly adapted to crack. They supplement their diet with some insects, particularly during the breeding season.
Black-billed Seed Finches are generally observed singly or in pairs, exhibiting a rather retiring demeanor, often staying low within dense vegetation. Males are known for their distinct, often rapid and complex, high-pitched songs, delivered from exposed perches, particularly during the breeding ...
The Black-billed Seed Finch is endemic to the eastern slope of the Andes and adjacent lowlands in South America. Its primary range extends from southeastern Peru, encompassing regions like Puno, Cusco, and Madre de Dios, south into Bolivia, where it is found in departments such as La Paz, Santa C...
Least Concern
- The Black-billed Seed Finch boasts one of the largest bills proportionally among all species in the genus *Sporophila*, a significant adaptation reflected in its common and scientific names ('atrirostris' means 'black-billed'). - Despite its striking appearance and specialized bill, it was rela...