Sporophila crassirostris
The Large-billed Seed Finch, *Sporophila crassirostris*, is a striking member of the tanager family (Thraupidae), renowned for its exceptionally large, conical bill that belies its relatively small size of approximately 13-14 cm (5.1-5.5 inches) and weight of 18-25 grams. Males are instantly identifiable by their glossy black head and upperparts, a crisp white collar, and white underparts, contrasting sharply with their massive, black, swollen bill, while females are a more cryptic olive-brow...
Found primarily in open, marshy grasslands, savannas, and shrubby clearings, often in close proximity to water sources. It thrives in lowland regions, typically below 500-800 meters elevation.
Primarily granivorous, feeding almost exclusively on seeds of grasses and other herbaceous plants, gleaned from the ground or directly from plants. Occasionally consumes small insects, especially during breeding season.
Large-billed Seed Finches are diurnal, spending their active hours foraging low in vegetation or on the ground. Their specialized, heavy bill is a primary tool, expertly used to crack open tough seed casings, making otherwise inaccessible food sources available. During the breeding season, males ...
The Large-billed Seed Finch is widely distributed across the northern and central lowlands of South America. Its primary breeding and resident range extends from eastern Colombia and northern Venezuela, through the Guianas (Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana), and across the vast Amazon Basin of Bra...
Least Concern
- Its scientific name, *crassirostris*, literally means 'thick-billed' or 'fat-billed,' perfectly describing its most distinctive feature. - Despite its common name 'seed finch,' it is actually a member of the tanager family (Thraupidae), not the true finch family (Fringillidae). - The male's mas...