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Photo: © Juan Sebastian Moreno eBird S22632653 Macaulay Library ML 24004341
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Lesson's Seedeater

Sporophila bouvronides
Espiguero de Lesson
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Song

Lesson's Seedeater

Appearance: The Lesson's Seedeater is a small bird, measuring around 11.4 cm in length. The male has a black head and upperparts, with a white belly and chest. It has a distinctive white patch on the wings and a bright orange patch on the throat. The female is duller in color, with brown upperparts and a paler belly.
Habitat: Lesson's Seedeater is found in grasslands, savannas, and agricultural areas with tall grasses and shrubs. They are often seen in open areas with scattered trees and bushes.
Behavior: Lesson's Seedeaters are primarily seed-eaters, feeding on grass seeds and other plant material. They are often seen foraging on the ground or perched on grass stalks. They are known for their distinctive song, which is a series of high-pitched whistles.
Breeding: The breeding season for Lesson's Seedeater occurs during the rainy season, from March to May. They build cup-shaped nests made of grass and other plant material, usually placed in shrubs or low trees. The female lays 2-4 eggs, which are incubated for about 12-14 days.
Conservation Status: The Lesson's Seedeater is considered to be of Least Concern by the IUCN.
MALE
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Photo: © Juan Sebastian Moreno eBird S22632653 Macaulay Library ML 24004341
FEMALE
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Photo: © Jay McGowan eBird Checklist S9350919 Macaulay Library ML 30106221

Distribution

This is a migrant bird that can be found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, open woodlands, and agricultural areas found in the eastern half of the country.

Taxonomy

The Lesson's Seedeater (Sporophila bouvronides)
  • Kingdom: Animalia
  • Phylum: Chordata
  • Class: Aves (Birds)
  • Order: Passeriformes
  • Family: Thraupidae
  • Genus: Sporophila
  • Species: Sporophila bouvronides

Vocalization

The Lesson's Seedeater has a soft, melodious song consisting of clear, whistled notes. It is often described as a series of sweet, descending phrases. The call is a high-pitched "tseet" or "tsee-tsee-tsee" sound.