Picogordo Pizarra
Slate-colored Saltator
Saltator grossus
Song
Slate-colored Saltator
Appearance: The Slate-colored Saltator is a medium-sized bird, measuring approximately 20 to 23 cm in length. As the name suggests, it has a predominantly slate-gray coloration. The plumage is generally dark gray, with some individuals having a slightly bluish tint. It has a stout, conical bill typical of seed-eating birds. The throat and chest may appear slightly paler compared to the rest of the body.
Habitat: The Slate-colored Saltator is found in humid tropical and subtropical forests. It prefers the understory and edges of forests. In Colombia, it is found in lowland areas and foothills, generally up to 1,200 meters above sea level. This species is distributed across northern and western parts of South America. In Colombia, it is primarily found in the Pacific lowlands and the Magdalena Valley.
Behavior: The Slate-colored Saltator : primarily feeds on fruits, seeds, and occasionally insects. Its strong bill is well-suited for cracking seeds. It is often observed alone or in pairs, though it may occasionally join mixed-species flocks. The species is known for its melodious song, which is a series of clear whistles and trills.
Breeding: The breeding season varies geographically, but it generally nests during the wet season. The nest is usually a cup-shaped structure made of twigs and other plant materials, placed in a shrub or low tree. The female typically lays two to three eggs. Both parents are involved in feeding and caring for the chicks once they hatch.
Conservation Status: As of the latest assessments, the Slate-colored Saltator is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN.
MALE
FEMALE
Distribution
Andean Region: The species is present in the Andean region, where it inhabits both the eastern and western slopes of the Andes. It can be found at various elevations in lower montane forests and adjacent areas. Also found in Antioquia.
Pacific Coast: The Slate-colored Saltator is found along the western regions of the Chocó, Valle del Cauca, Cauca, and Nariño.
Amazon Region: Although less common, the species can also be found in the northwestern parts of the Amazon basin, particularly in areas where the forest transitions into more open habitats. Also found in Meta, Vichada and Guainía.
Taxonomy
The Slate-colored Saltator (Saltator grossus)
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves (Birds)
- Order: Passeriformes
- Family: Thraupidae
- Genus: Saltator
- Species: Saltator grossus
Vocalization
The Slate-colored Saltator is a bird species found primarily in Central and South America. It is known for its robust body and distinctive slate-gray coloration, which gives it its name. Vocalization plays a significant role in the life of the Slate-colored Saltator, serving several purposes:
Territorial Calls: Like many bird species, the Slate-colored Saltator uses vocalizations to establish and defend its territory. Males often sing to signal their presence to other males and to ward off potential intruders.
Mate Attraction: Vocalizations are also crucial during the breeding season, as males sing to attract females. The quality and frequency of their songs can be a factor in mate selection, with females potentially choosing mates based on their vocal prowess.
Social Interaction: The Slate-colored Saltator is often found in pairs or small groups, and vocalizations help maintain social bonds and interactions within these groups.
The songs of the Slate-colored Saltator are typically melodious and can vary between individuals and regions. These vocalizations are an integral part of their behavior and ecology, playing a key role in their survival and reproductive success.
