Bridled Sparrow

Overview

The bridled sparrow (Peucaea mystacalis) is a species of bird in the family Passerellidae that is endemic to Mexico. It is currently assessed as being of Least Concern by the IUCN, with an estimated population of at least 20,000 mature individuals.

Identification

• Adults are 14 to 16.5 cm long with a grayish crown and nape, a brown back with black streaks, and cinnamon rufous scapulars and rump.
• The face features black lores with a white spot above, a dull brownish gray or dusky face with a white 'moustache' stripe, a white chin, and a black throat.
• Wings are dull black or dusky with two white wing bars formed by white-tipped middle and greater coverts, while the belly is dull white and flanks are cinnamon buff.
• The song consists of a series of hesitant, slightly sneezy, sharp chips that break into an excited liquid chatter, described as 'w-sik' or 'w-syu' accelerating into a rapid 'seeu seeu' pattern.

Habitat

This species inhabits arid montane scrublands, including thorn forest, as well as nearby oak scrub and overgrown clearings in south-central Mexico. Its range covers southern Puebla and northern Oaxaca, with local presence in Morelos and Veracruz, at elevations between 900 and 1,900 m.

Diet

Although not fully studied, the diet apparently includes seeds, insects, spiders, fruit, and nectar. The bird usually forages on and near the ground, typically in pairs or small groups.

Did you know?

Despite its name, the white 'moustache' stripe on its face is yellowish or buffy in juveniles rather than white. Additionally, its song is characterised by a distinctive 'sneezy' quality that transitions into an accelerating, rapid chatter.