Arrocero Piquigrueso
Thick-billed Seed-finch
Sporophila funerea
Song
Thick-billed Seed-finch
Appearance: The Thick-billed Seed-finch is characterized by its thick, conical bill which is adapted for cracking open seeds. It has a black head, back, and wings, with a white belly and chest. The male has a bright yellow throat and breast, while the female has a duller yellow coloration.
Habitat: The Thick-billed Seed-finch is found in grasslands, savannas, and agricultural areas with dense vegetation. They are often seen foraging for seeds on the ground or in low shrubs.
Behavior: These birds are seed-eaters, feeding on a variety of grass and weed seeds. They are known to form small flocks during the non-breeding season. They are known for their song, which is a series of high-pitched whistles.
Breeding: The Thick-billed Seed-finch builds its nest in dense vegetation low to the ground. The female lays 2-3 eggs, which are incubated for about 12-14 days. Both parents are involved in feeding and caring for the young.
Conservation Status: The Thick-billed Seed-finch is considered to be of Least Concern by the IUCN.
MALE
FEMALE
Distribution
The Thick-billed Seed-finch is found in the northern and central regions. This species is most commonly found in the departments of Antioquia, Bolívar, Cesar, Córdoba, Magdalena, and Sucre. They are also found in parts of the departments of Atlántico, Boyacá, Cundinamarca, and along the Pacific coast.
Taxonomy
The Thick-billed Seed-finch (Sporophila funerea)
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves (Birds)
- Order: Passeriformes
- Family: Thraupidae
- Genus: Sporophila
- Species: Sporophila funerea
Vocalization
The Thick-billed Seed-finch is known for its distinctive vocalizations, which include a series of high-pitched chirps and trills. The male will often sing a melodious song to attract a mate, consisting of a series of whistles and warbles. The female may also produce soft chirps and calls to communicate with her mate or offspring.
