Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat
Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.
Yellow-bellied Seedeater
Scientific name: Sporophila nigricollis

IUCN Status: Least Concern
Family: THRAUPIDAE
Group: Birds
Shyness: Suspicious
Safe distance: 5 m
Breeding season / Courtship: 01.10–31.03
Gestation / Incubation: 12–14 jours
Births: 01.11–15.04
Habitat:
Grasslands, cultivated fields, forest edges
Description:
The Yellow-bellied Seedeater is a small passerine bird belonging to the Thraupidae family. It is primarily found in Central and South America, inhabiting open areas such as grasslands, cultivated fields, and forest edges. This bird is notable for its contrasting plumage: the male has a brown back, bright yellow belly, and distinctive black throat, while the female displays duller tones. The Yellow-bellied Seedeater is granivorous, mainly feeding on seeds, but it can also consume small insects. Its song is melodious and varied, making it easily identifiable. Although often solitary, it can form small groups outside the breeding season.
Recommended lens:
>=400mm
Photography tips:
To photograph the Yellow-bellied Seedeater, it is recommended to use a 400mm lens or longer to capture detailed images without disturbing the bird. Look for it in grasslands and cultivated fields, where it is often active during the day. Be patient and discreet to get natural shots. Prefer early morning or late afternoon hours to benefit from soft light and avoid harsh shadows.
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