Collared Crescentchest

Overview

The collared crescentchest (Melanopareia torquata) is a species of suboscine passerine bird in the family Melanopareiidae. It is found in Bolivia, Brazil, and Paraguay.

Identification

• Length of 14.5 cm with a weight of approximately 16.5–18.0 g.
• Brown back and rump, buff underparts, and a gray-brown crown; the rufescens subspecies has a reddish-brown crown.
• Distinctive markings include a narrow white supercilium edged with black, a rufous 'collar' on the back of the neck, and a black band across the breast.
• Song consists of a series of 3–6 loud, resonant 'chip' notes, and its call is a penetrating 'churr'.

Habitat

Primarily found in central Brazil and far northeastern Paraguay, inhabiting the cerrado biome characterized by a mix of savannah and woodlands. The species prefers wetter open areas and avoids disturbed habitats, ranging up to an elevation of 1,400 m.

Diet

Although its diet has not been specifically described, the species is assumed to be insectivorous.

Did you know?

The nest is constructed as a globe of dry grass and leaves placed near the ground, with both sexes participating in incubation and the care of nestlings.