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Photo: © Marcos Eugênio Birding Guide eBird S46673482 Macaulay Library ML 104994501
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Wedge-tailed Grass-finch

Emberizoides herbicola
Sabanero Coludo
map-colombia-wedge-tailed-grass-finch
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Song

Wedge-tailed Grass-finch

Appearance: The Wedge-tailed Grass-finch has a grayish-brown plumage, a white belly, and a black wedge-shaped tail. They have a short, conical bill and are approximately 12-13 cm in length.
Habitat: This species is commonly found in grasslands, savannas, and agricultural fields. They prefer open areas with tall grasses and shrubs.
Behavior: The Wedge-tailed Grass-finch is a social bird that forages on the ground for seeds, insects, and small invertebrates. They are often seen in small flocks or pairs.
Breeding: Breeding season for the Wedge-tailed Grass-finch occurs from September to January. They build cup-shaped nests made of grass and other plant materials, usually hidden in tall grasses or shrubs.
Conservation status: The Wedge-tailed Grass-finch is considered a species of least concern in Colombia.

Distribution

The Wedge-tailed Grass-finch is a bird species found in the grasslands and savannas of the eastern and central regions of the country. It is most commonly found in the departments of Meta, Casanare, Arauca, Vichada, and Guaviare. The distribution of the Wedge-tailed Grass-finch is concentrated in the Orinoco River basin and surrounding areas, where it can be found in open grasslands, agricultural fields, and other open habitats. It is less common in the western and northern regions where the habitat is more forested and mountainous. Also, In the Andean mountains of Cesar and Magdalena departments.

Taxonomy

The Wedge-tailed Grass-finch (Emberizoides herbicola)
  • Kingdom: Animalia
  • Phylum: Chordata
  • Class: Aves (Birds)
  • Order: Passeriformes
  • Family: Thraupidae
  • Genus: Emberizoides
  • Species: Emberizoides herbicola

Vocalization

The Wedge-tailed Grass-finch is known for its high-pitched and melodious chirping vocalizations. It often produces a series of short, sweet notes that are repeated in a rapid and rhythmic pattern. The song of the male Grass-finch is louder and more complex than that of the female, and is often used to attract a mate or defend its territory.