Plain-colored Seedeater

The Plain-colored Seedeater occurs widely across high-elevation habitats in the Ecuadorian Andes, typically between 2,800 and 4,200 meters, where it inhabits open páramo grasslands, shrubby slopes, and agricultural edges. It is generally common in suitable habitat, often seen foraging in small flocks for seeds and insects, with males showing uniform gray plumage and females streaked brown. The species is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, with a broad Andean range and a stable population that adapts well to human-altered environments. Natural history observations highlight its terrestrial habits, simple vocalizations, and cup-shaped nests built in low shrubs or grass tussocks, with breeding timed to coincide with the rainy season.