Taxonomic Classification

• Kingdom : Animalia
• Phylum : Chordata
• Class : Aves
• Order : Passeriformes
• Family : Thraupidae
• Genus : Sporophila
• Common Name : Seedeater, Saltator, or Grass Sparrow

Description

The term “sporophile” refers to several species of birds belonging to the genus Sporophila, found primarily in Central and South America, but also in the Caribbean. These birds are small seed-eaters with thick, short beaks, adapted to their diet.

• Size : Seed flies generally measure between 10 and 13 cm in length.
• Morphology : They often exhibit sexual dimorphism, with males being more colorful than females. Colors vary depending on the species, ranging from black, white, gray, to brown. Females have a duller, often brownish coloration.
• Beak : Their beak is robust, conical, and perfectly adapted for eating seeds.

Common Species

There are many species of Sporophila, but here are some notable examples :

• Scuttle Seedeater (Sporophila torqueola): Found in Central America, the male has black and white plumage while the female is brownish.
• Rufous-bellied Seedeater (Sporophila angolensis) : Found in South America, it is easily identifiable by the reddish tint of its belly and its black back.
• Lesser Song Seedeater (Sporophila minuta) : A small seedeater species with plain plumage, often seen in the Caribbean and Central America.
• Robin Seedeater : This bird is endemic to the Lesser Antilles and has a subspecies, Loxigilla noctis noctis, endemic to Martinique. It is very common and is found in virtually all habitats. It is accustomed to humans and does not hesitate to frequent our gardens.

Habitat and Ecology

Seedeaters are gregarious birds and are often found in small flocks. They are particularly fond of open habitats, such as grasslands, savannas, cultivated fields, and roadsides.

• Habitat : Grassland, savannah, scrubland, agricultural fields, and occasionally wetlands. Some species are found in open forests.
• Diet : Granivorous, feeding mainly on grass seeds, grains, and sometimes small insects, particularly during the breeding season to feed their young.

Threats and Conservation Status

The genus Sporophila is widespread in the Americas, with a notable concentration in South America. Some species have a specific distribution in the Caribbean.

• Regions : Brazil, Venezuela, Colombia, Guyana, Panama, Mexico, and Caribbean islands such as Guadeloupe and Martinique.

Reproduction

• Nesting : Seedeaters build small cup-shaped nests, often hidden in grass or low bushes.
• Clutch : The female typically lays 2 to 3 eggs per season. Incubation lasts approximately 12 to 14 days, with the female primarily responsible for the eggs.
• Parental Care : After hatching, both parents feed the chicks, which leave the nest approximately two weeks after hatching.

Threats and Conservation Status

Some seedeater species are in decline due to habitat destruction, particularly agricultural areas and grasslands. The illegal trade in caged birds is also a threat, particularly to more colorful species such as the Sporophila angolensis.

• Conservation : Although many Sporophila species are still considered to be of “Least Concern” by the IUCN, some local species face increasing threats from habitat loss.

Behavior and Vocalization

Seedeaters are known for their melodious song, especially the males, who often sing to attract females during the breeding season. The song varies from species to species, but is often described as soft and repetitive.

Sources

1. Stiles, F.G., & Skutch, A.F. (1989). A Guide to the Birds of Costa Rica. Cornell University Press.
2. Ridgely, R.S., & Tudor, G. (2009). Field Guide to the Songbirds of South America.
3. Birds & Co, INPN et Préévaluations, Maël DEWYNTER