A denizen of dense secondary growth, forest edges, and overgrown clearings, the Black-striped Sparrow (Arremonops conirostris) is more often heard than seen. Its loud, whistled song—often a rising series of notes—rings out at dawn and dusk throughout much of Central and South America.

This ground-foraging species favors shaded understory habitats where it can remain partially concealed. Its distinct black head stripes, olive back, and grayish underparts help it blend into its surroundings. Unlike many tropical sparrows, A. conirostris is largely non-migratory, maintaining year-round territories.

Pairs build domed nests with side entrances near or on the ground, often hidden in thick vegetation. Their diet includes seeds, insects, and small invertebrates, making them important players in seed dispersal and pest control.

Source: Schulenberg, T. S., & Johnson, T. (2020). Birds of the World. Cornell Lab of Ornithology.