Sporophila ruficollis
The Dark-throated Seedeater, *Sporophila ruficollis*, is a diminutive yet striking Neotropical passerine belonging to the Thraupidae family. Measuring approximately 10-11 cm (4-4.3 inches) in length and weighing a mere 7-12 grams, males are instantly recognizable by their distinctive black or dark rufous-chestnut throat, face, and often crown, contrasting sharply with slate-grey upperparts, a white belly, and rufous-chestnut flanks and rump. A prominent white speculum or wing-bar is usually v...
This species primarily inhabits lowland freshwater wetlands, including wet grasslands, marsh edges, and rice fields, typically below 600 meters elevation. It shows a strong preference for areas with dense, tall grasses and sedges near standing water.
The diet of *Sporophila ruficollis* consists predominantly of small grass seeds (Poaceae) and sedge seeds (Cyperaceae), supplemented with a small number of insects, particularly during the breeding season. They forage by gleaning seeds directly from plants or from the ground.
Dark-throated Seedeaters exhibit diurnal activity, primarily foraging during the day and roosting communally in dense vegetation at night. They are agile foragers, often seen clinging to grass stalks or hopping on the ground to pluck mature seeds directly from the inflorescences or from fallen de...
The Dark-throated Seedeater has a geographically restricted, disjunct range across southeastern South America, primarily inhabiting lowlands below 600 meters. Its primary breeding grounds are concentrated in southern Brazil (particularly Rio Grande do Sul and Santa Catarina states), Uruguay, and ...
Near Threatened
- The Dark-throated Seedeater is one of several South American seedeaters collectively known as "capuchinos" due to the hood-like patterns on the males' heads, reminiscent of Capuchin friars' habits. - Males possess remarkably bright, iridescent black or rufous-chestnut plumage on their throat an...