Thinocorus orbignyianus
The Grey-breasted Seedsnipe (Thinocorus orbignyianus) is a captivating, medium-sized shorebird species, though its appearance and behavior defy typical shorebird characteristics. Resembling a plump dove or a small grouse, it measures approximately 20-24 cm (7.9-9.4 in) in length with a wingspan around 45-50 cm (17.7-19.7 in) and weighs 90-140 g (3.2-4.9 oz). Adults exhibit a distinctive slate-grey breast, sharply demarcated from a white belly, while their upperparts are cryptically patterned ...
Primarily inhabiting high-altitude puna grasslands, steppes, and open barren areas of the Andes, often found above 3,000 meters (10,000 feet) and up to 5,000 meters (16,000 feet) in elevation. It prefers areas with sparse vegetation, tussock grasses, and short shrubs, often near bogs or moist spots.
The Grey-breasted Seedsnipe's diet consists almost exclusively of seeds, leaves, buds, and small shoots of various high-Andean plants, making it a unique herbivore among shorebirds. It forages by grazing and picking vegetation directly from the ground.
Grey-breasted Seedsnipes are primarily diurnal and terrestrial, spending most of their time foraging on the ground. They walk with a deliberate, plover-like gait, often freezing motionless when alarmed, relying on their superb camouflage. Foraging involves meticulously picking seeds, leaves, and ...
The Grey-breasted Seedsnipe is endemic to the high Andes of South America, with a substantial distribution spanning several countries. Its breeding range extends from central Peru southward through Bolivia and Chile, reaching into western and central Argentina, and as far south as Tierra del Fueg...
Least Concern
- Despite its name, the Grey-breasted Seedsnipe is not closely related to true snipes (family Scolopacidae) but is a member of the Charadriiformes, the order that includes plovers and sandpipers. - Seedsnipes (family Thinocoridae) are the only truly herbivorous family within the diverse Charadrii...