Blue-black Grassquit
Theblue-black grassquit(Volatiniajacaranda) is a smallbirdin thetanagerfamily,Thraupidae.It was previously classified in thebuntingandAmerican sparrowfamily,Emberizidae.
Description:
The Blue-black grassquit have cone shaped black bills. The male is glossy blue-black, with a black tail and wings. The white inner underwing is visible in flight or display. Female and juvenileshave brown upper parts and dark-streaked buff underparts.
Breeding:
The Blue-black Grassquitbreeds from southernMexicothroughCentral America, andSouth Americaas far as northernChile,ArgentinaandParaguay, and onTrinidad and Tobago. It is the only member of the genusVolatinia.It makes a small cup nest, with a typical clutch of one to three pale green eggs blotched with reddish brown. Both sexes incubate for 910 days, with about the same period again for the young to fledge.
Interesting Facts:
The male has a jumping display, often performed for long periods, which gives rise to the local name johnny jump-up. This is accompanied by a persistent wheezingjweeeecall.
Diet for Black-and-white Seedeater:
Paradise Earth Premium Finch Blend. During breeding season they should be given live worms and egg food.