Espiguero Saltarín
Blue-black Grassquit
Volatinia jacarina
Song
Blue-black Grassquit
Appearance: The male Blue-black Grassquit has a striking appearance with glossy blue-black plumage and a bright blue patch on its throat. The female is duller in color, with brownish-gray plumage.
Habitat: Blue-black Grassquits are found in open grasslands, savannas, and agricultural areas with scattered trees and shrubs. They are also found in disturbed habitats such as pastures and roadsides.
Behavior: These birds are often seen foraging for seeds and insects on the ground or in low vegetation. They are known for their courtship displays, which involve the male puffing out his throat feathers and performing a series of fluttering flights.
Breeding: Blue-black Grassquits build their nests in low shrubs or grasses. The female lays 2-4 eggs, which are incubated for about 11-13 days. Both parents are involved in feeding and caring for the young.
Conservation status: The Blue-black Grassquit is considered a species of Least Concern by the IUCN.
MALE
FEMALE
Distribution
The Blue-black Grassquit is widely distributed across the country, but its abundance may vary in different regions. It can be found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, savannas, agricultural areas, and open woodlands. It is commonly seen in the Caribbean region, the Andean region, the Orinoco region, and the Amazon region of Colombia.
Taxonomy
The Blue-black Grassquit (Volatinia jacarina)
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves (Birds)
- Order: Passeriformes
- Family: Thraupidae
- Genus: Volatinia
- Species: Volatinia jacarina
Vocalization
The Blue-black Grassquit makes a series of high-pitched, metallic chirps and trills. The song is often described as a rapid, tinkling twittering sound.
