Sporophila bouvronides
The Lesson's Seedeater (Sporophila bouvronides) is a striking member of the Thraupidae family, characterized by pronounced sexual dimorphism. Males are instantly recognizable with a distinctive black head, throat, and breast, contrasting sharply with a white collar, white rump, and a clean white belly, further marked by a prominent buffy-orange patch on the flanks. They measure approximately 10-11 cm (4.0-4.3 in) in length and weigh around 8.5-12 g (0.30-0.42 oz). Females, in contrast, are a ...
This seedeater primarily inhabits open grassy areas, savannahs, shrubby clearings, and agricultural lands, frequently found near water. It thrives in disturbed habitats and forest edges, generally occurring in low to mid-elevations.
Their diet consists predominantly of small grass seeds, which they deftly extract with their stout, conical bills. During the breeding season, they supplement their diet with small insects.
Lesson's Seedeaters are diurnal birds, active from dawn to dusk, often foraging in small flocks or pairs, especially outside the breeding season. Males establish and defend territories with their characteristic, sweet, whistled songs, delivered from prominent perches. Foraging involves meticulous...
The Lesson's Seedeater primarily breeds across northern South America, with its core breeding range extending from eastern Colombia through Venezuela, the Guianas (Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana), and into northern Brazil, specifically in the states of Amapá and Pará. Following the breeding seas...
Least Concern
- The Lesson's Seedeater is named after the French naturalist René Lesson, who first described the species. - Males possess one of the most striking plumages among the 'capuchino' group of seedeaters, with its bold black, white, and buff pattern. - Despite its small size, this species undertakes ...