Variable Seedeater

Overview

The variable seedeater (Sporophila corvina) is a small passerine bird that breeds from southern Mexico through Central America to northwestern South America. It is characterised by significant plumage variation among its four subspecies, a feature that directly inspires its common name.

Identification

• Plumage: Males vary dramatically by subspecies, ranging from entirely black with white wing linings to pied forms with white bellies and collars; females are olive-brown above and paler below.
• Size: Small and robust, measuring 10.5 cm in length and weighing approximately 11 g.
• Bill: Short, black, and conical.
• Song: The male sings a mixture of warbles, whistles, and twitters, which is notably more elaborate on the Pacific slope, accompanied by a harsh 'chur' call.

Habitat

This species is found in lowlands and foothills up to 1,500 m altitude across semi-open habitats such as forest edges, roadsides, low scrub, and gardens. It also occurs in pastures, weedy fields, and other grassland areas, often flocking with other seedeater species.

Diet

The variable seedeater feeds mainly on grass seeds but also consumes other seeds, berries, and some insects.

Did you know?

Rare hypermelanic individuals exist where increased phaeomelanin renders their white plumage areas bright tawny chestnut, providing a glimpse into speciation processes seen in other Sporophila and Oryzoborus species.