Spectacled Whitestart

Overview

The spectacled whitestart (Myioborus melanocephalus) is a species of bird in the family Parulidae, also known as the spectacled redstart. It is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, with a population believed to be decreasing but considered common within its range.

Identification

• Small warbler measuring 13 to 13.5 cm long and weighing approximately 10 to 13 g.
• Adult nominate subspecies feature a black face with a bright yellow supraloral stipe and eye-ring forming 'spectacles', gray upperparts, and yellow underparts.
• All subspecies possess a dark iris, a blackish bill, and blackish legs and feet.
• Song described as a variable, high-pitched series of twittering notes, sometimes evolving into a musical, high warbled phrase.

Habitat

Found in the Andes from Colombia to Bolivia, inhabiting humid landscapes such as the interior and edges of montane forest, cloudforest, elfin forest, and adjoining scrublands. Elevation ranges vary by region, typically between 1,800 and 4,000 m.

Diet

Feeds on insects and other arthropods by gleaning and catching prey in mid-air. It primarily forages in the forest canopy but will feed at all levels, flicking its outer tail feathers to flush out prey.

Did you know?

The bird gets its name from the 'spectacles' formed by a bright yellow supraloral stipe and eye-ring on its black face, which is a feature unique to the nominate subspecies.