Grassquit

Grassquit is a common name that can refer to several species of small seed-eating birds in the family Thraupidae, primarily found in the Neotropics. These birds are typically plain-colored, often exhibiting shades of brown, gray, and white, which provides them with camouflage in their grassland and open woodland habitats. Their diet consists mainly of grass seeds, supplemented with insects and other small invertebrates, especially during the breeding season. Grassquits are generally small passerine birds, with most species measuring between 8 to 13 centimeters in length.

The genus Tiaris contains several well-known species referred to as grassquits, such as the Greater Grassquit (Tiaris olivaceus) and the Lesser Grassquit (Tiaris canorus). The Greater Grassquit, for instance, is found from southern Mexico to South America and is characterized by its olive-green plumage and a black throat patch in males. The Lesser Grassquit, native to Cuba and surrounding islands, is a common cage bird due to its melodious song. Other genera, like Loxipasser, also include species that are sometimes called grassquits.

These birds are often seen in pairs or small flocks, foraging on the ground or in low vegetation. Their nests are typically cup-shaped or globular, constructed from grasses and other plant materials, and are usually placed in dense bushes or tall grass. Grassquits play a role in their ecosystems as seed dispersers and as a food source for various predators. Due to their widespread distribution and adaptability to human-modified landscapes, many grassquit species are not considered threatened, though habitat loss can affect local populations.