White-collared Seedeater in Costa Maya, Mexico.

The White-collared Seedeater (Sporophila torqueola) is a passerine bird in the typical seedeater genus Sporophila. It is identifiable by the broad white collar, white rump, and black hood. The species occurs from southern Texas south to western Panama and is the only member of the widespread genus Sporophila that is confined solely to Mexico and Central America. There are four subspecies of White-collared Seedeater, and the species is split into two species by some authorities. The conservation status for the White-collared Seedeater is assessed as of Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, due to its large geographic range, and an apparent trend of population increase. [Neotropical Birds]

White-collared Seedeater in Belize.

White-collared Seedeater

The White-collared Seedeater is a typical Sporophila: it is a small finch with a short, stubby bill. Males in alternate plumage have a prominent white throat and have white outer webs to the primaries, forming a prominent white spot along the folded wing.

Females are much less patterned and are buffy brown above and whitish buff below. [Neotropical Birds]

White-collared Seedeater