GaviaArctica
New member
I've been wondering the taxonomic position of Rufous-collared sparrow (Zonothricia capensis) for a long time now. Somehow everything seems to be wrong. The closest relatives in the genus Zonothricia are all arctic or subarctic birds and Rufous-collared sparrow is neotropical. Could it be that Rufous-collared sparrow is an old world bunting related to african buntings in the genus Emberiza? It seems to me that it's just a darker version of Cape bunting (Emberiza capensis). Even their songs are like sister species' songs.
Rufous-collared sparrow
http://www.xeno-canto.org/390483
Cape bunting
http://www.xeno-canto.org/382897
I tried to google, but didn't find anything useful. I've lurked for a long time and I know there are experts here. Can you clear this matter for me? Or is it just too far-fetched?
Rufous-collared sparrow
http://www.xeno-canto.org/390483
Cape bunting
http://www.xeno-canto.org/382897
I tried to google, but didn't find anything useful. I've lurked for a long time and I know there are experts here. Can you clear this matter for me? Or is it just too far-fetched?
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