Description

Chestnut-Bellied Seedeater

The Chestnut-Bellied Seedeater (Sporophila angolensis) is a striking member of the Thraupidae family, easily identified by its rich, chestnut-colored plumage and contrasting slate-grey to blackish wings and tail. This species is classified as rare and is under threat from heavy trapping and habitat changes, which impact its ability to breed and thrive. Despite these challenges, they can occasionally be found in larger numbers when conditions are favorable.

Male Appearance:
The adult male Chestnut-Bellied Seedeater has a mostly chestnut body, head, and a grey crown. It features a white patch at the base of the primaries on its slate-grey or blackish wings, and a robust black bill that complements its dark brown eyes. Some males may show paler tips on the underpart feathers, resulting in a slightly variegated look. The bird’s legs and feet are black.

Female Appearance:
Females display a more muted coloration, with sandy-brown upperparts and darker wings and tail. The wing-coverts are bordered in sandy-brown, while the underparts are buff with a lighter belly. The female’s bill is generally dark brown to blackish, and her legs and feet match in color.

Juveniles:
Young birds resemble the female in coloring. As young males mature, they begin to darken above and develop a buff shade below. They gradually gain the darker feathers characteristic of adult males.

At around 10 cm in length, this small bird is known for its stout build and distinctive coloring, which adds to its allure but also makes it a target for trappers in its natural habitat.