Eastern Chat-Tanager

Overview

The eastern chat-tanager (Calyptophilus frugivorus) is a Near Threatened passerine bird endemic to the island of Hispaniola. While previously widespread across the Dominican Republic and Haiti, the only confirmed extant subspecies is now restricted to the central Sierra de Neiba mountain range.

Identification

• Length of 17 to 19 cm with a long bill and long tail, giving it a shape somewhat resembling a mockingbird.
• Plumage includes a dusky brown crown, dark grayish brown face with a yellow line between the bill and eye, and a yellow eye-ring.
• Throat and underparts are white with a heavy wash of grayish brown on the flanks and lower belly.
• Song is described as a low slurred or whistled 'swerp, swerp, chip, chip, chip...' or 'weet-weet-werp chip-cheep-sweet...', accompanied by a sharp 'chin chin chin' call.

Habitat

Found in dense undergrowth in montane forest, particularly in ravines and along streams, ranging up to or above 2,000 m. It inhabits the central Sierra de Neiba mountain range in the western Dominican Republic, with possible extension into Haiti. The species is a year-round resident and is typically secretive.

Diet

The bird forages on or near the ground, usually in pairs. Its diet consists primarily of insects and other invertebrates, supplemented with a small amount of fruit.

Did you know?

The species is regarded as one of the finest singers on Hispaniola, with both sexes singing usually at dawn. Almost nothing is known about its breeding biology, and only a single cup-shaped nest has ever been found.