Sporophila plumbea
The Plumbeous Seedeater (*Sporophila plumbea*) is a small, neotropical passerine bird, renowned for the striking sexual dimorphism exhibited within its species. Adult males are unmistakably characterized by their sleek, uniform slate-grey plumage across the entire body, complemented by black primaries and a distinctive white crescent mark at the base of the bill, setting them apart from other seedeaters. Females, in stark contrast, are much duller, presenting an inconspicuous olive-brown abov...
Found in open grasslands, savannas, pastures, and cultivated fields, often preferring areas with scattered shrubs and proximity to water sources or marshy ground, typically at elevations from sea level up to 1500 meters.
Primarily granivorous, feeding almost exclusively on small grass seeds, which they glean directly from seed heads or off the ground, occasionally supplementing with small insects.
Plumbeous Seedeaters are diurnal birds, primarily foraging on the ground or among low vegetation for seeds. During the breeding season, males are highly territorial, defending their chosen patch with persistent, varied songs delivered from prominent perches like tall grass stalks or fence posts. ...
The Plumbeous Seedeater exhibits a broad but somewhat disjunct distribution across central and eastern South America. Its primary breeding range extends through vast areas of Brazil, Bolivia, Paraguay, northern Argentina, and Uruguay. Within Brazil, it is particularly common across the Cerrado bi...
Least Concern
- The specific epithet 'plumbea' is Latin for 'leaden,' directly referring to the distinctive slate-grey plumage of the male Plumbeous Seedeater. - Despite their common name and appearance, these 'seedeaters' are actually classified within the tanager family (Thraupidae), not sparrows. - Males di...