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Photo: © Juan Sebastian Moreno eBird S20068361 Macaulay Library ML 24005461
gray-seedeater

Gray Seedeater

Sporophila intermedia
Espiguero Gris
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Song

Gray Seedeater

Appearance: The Gray Seedeater has a grayish-brown plumage with a white patch on its wings. It has a short, conical bill that is adapted for cracking seeds.
Habitat: The Gray Seedeater is found in open grasslands, savannas, and agricultural areas where it can feed on seeds and grasses.
Behavior: This bird is known for its social behavior, often forming small flocks to forage for food together. It is a ground-dwelling species that spends much of its time foraging for seeds and insects.
Breeding: The Gray Seedeater builds its nest in shrubs or trees, and the female lays 2-4 eggs. Both parents take turns incubating the eggs and feeding the chicks.
Conservation Status: The Gray Seedeater is considered a species of Least Concern according to the IUCN.
MALE
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Photo: © Juan Sebastian Moreno eBird S20068361 Macaulay Library ML 24005461
FEMALE
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Photo: © Illustration by Brian Small

Distribution

The Gray Seedeater is found in the Andean region in the departments of Antioquia, Boyacá, Caldas, Cundinamarca, Risaralda, and Quindio. It is commonly seen in grasslands, agricultural areas, and open habitats in this region.
The Gray Seedeater is also found in the Caribbean region in the departments of Atlántico, Bolívar, Cesar, La Guajira, and Magdalena. It can be spotted in grasslands, savannas, and agricultural areas in this region.
The Gray Seedeater is also found in the Orinoco region in the departments of  Arauca, Casanare, Meta, and Vichada. It is commonly found in grasslands, floodplains, and agricultural areas in this region.

Taxonomy

The Gray Seedeater (Sporophila intermedia)
  • Kingdom: Animalia
  • Phylum: Chordata
  • Class: Aves (Birds)
  • Order: Passeriformes
  • Family: Thraupidae
  • Genus: Sporophila
  • Species: Sporophila intermedia

Vocalization

The Gray Seedeater is known for its soft and melodious song, consisting of a series of high-pitched whistles and trills. The vocalization is often described as sweet and pleasant to the ear, with the bird singing from a hidden perch in the trees. The song is used by the male Gray Seedeater to attract a mate and establish its territory.