Lesson's Seedeater

The Lesson's seedeater, a diminutive avian species, bears a resemblance to the familiar sparrow and measures approximately 10.5 to 11 centimeters in length.

Identification Tips

Males of the species are distinguished by a predominantly black head adorned with a prominent white whisker mark. Females, on the other hand, exhibit an olive-brown back and a pale yellowish belly, complemented by a dull yellow bill.

Habitat

These birds are known to inhabit subtropical or tropical moist shrubland, as well as areas of heavily degraded former forest.

Distribution

The Lesson's seedeater graces a range of locales, including Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Panama, Peru, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, and Venezuela. A sighting has also been reported in Quebec as of the year 2021.

Behaviour

Flocks of Lesson's seedeaters are often observed in open marshlands and disturbed habitats with an abundance of long grass, particularly in proximity to water sources. They are known to feed on grass seeds.

Similar Species

The male Lesson's seedeater can be differentiated from the lined seedeater by the absence of a white stripe on its crown. Females of both species are indistinguishable unless accompanied by males. When compared to other seedeaters, females of this species can be identified by the strong yellowish wash on their underparts and their relatively small, dull yellow bill.

Conservation status

The Lesson's seedeater is currently classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.