Grassland Sparrow ( Ammodramus humeralis )

Physical appearence:
12cm. The upper parts are grayish with black and ferruginous stripes The chest is light brown with spots in the immature. There are yellow ribbons above the eyes and in the wings. The coloration may change when it is dirty due to contact with earth.
Distribution:
The Grassland Sparrow is found east of the Andes from Colombia to central Argentina but is missing from the Amazon Basin upstream from the Tapajós river.
Habitat:
Dry fields with grass, cerrado and crops.
Diet:
Feeds on grains and small insects.
Reproduction:
During the breeding season they live in pairs in a territory defended by the male. The nest is opened and placed on the ground. The eggs are somewhat blue. When there is a potential predator nearby the couple draws its attention away from the nest.
Natural history:
One of the Brazilian common names “rat sparrow” is due to its habit of running on the ground. It is easily overseen. When scared it may stoop down istead of flying. The immature plumage protects it from adults with established territories.