Painted Whitestart

Overview

The painted whitestart (Myioborus pictus), also known as the painted redstart, is a New World warbler characterised by its striking black, white, and red plumage. It is the largest species in the genus Myioborus and is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification

• Adult plumage is glossy black with a bright red belly, large white wing patches, and white outer tail feathers.
• Distinctive white crescents are visible below the eyes, with sexes appearing similar in colour.
• Measures 13–15 cm in length with a 21 cm wingspan; bill and legs are blackish.
• Females are notably proficient singers and often sing in duet with males during courtship.

Habitat

This species inhabits open oak woodlands and canyons at elevations between 1,500 and 2,500 m across inland Central America and Mexico. Its range extends north to the Madrean sky islands and Mogollon Rim in the southern United States, with rare records further north in California.

Diet

The painted whitestart is thought to be wholly insectivorous, though specific foraging techniques are not detailed in the source material.

Did you know?

Unusually for a warbler, females possess singing abilities equal to those of males, frequently bonding with their partners by singing together during spring courtship.