Sicalis luteola
The Grassland Yellow Finch (*Sicalis luteola*), a diminutive yet vibrant member of the Thraupidae family (tanagers), is a familiar sight across the open landscapes of the Neotropics. Males are resplendent in bright golden-yellow plumage across their head and underparts, contrasting sharply with their olive-streaked back and dark flight feathers, often displaying subtle dusky streaking on the flanks. Measuring approximately 10-11.5 cm (4.0-4.5 inches) in length and weighing 8-15 grams (0.28-0....
Found primarily in open grasslands, pastures, agricultural fields, savannas, and airfields, often at low to mid-elevations up to 3,000 meters.
Primarily granivorous, feeding on a variety of small grass seeds and other weed seeds, supplemented with small insects, particularly during the breeding season.
Diurnal in activity, the Grassland Yellow Finch spends much of its time foraging on the ground, often in small, loose flocks outside the breeding season. During the breeding period, males become more territorial, perching prominently on fence posts, low shrubs, or tall grasses to deliver their si...
The Grassland Yellow Finch boasts an incredibly expansive distribution across the Neotropics, spanning from southern Mexico through Central America, and widely across South America. Its breeding range extends from Oaxaca and Veracruz in Mexico, south through Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nica...
Least Concern
- Despite its common name, the Grassland Yellow Finch is not a 'true finch' (family Fringillidae) but belongs to the tanager family (Thraupidae). - It is one of the most widespread and numerous small passerines across Central and South America, adapting remarkably well to human-modified landscape...