Yellow-throated Spadebill

Overview

The yellow-throated spadebill (Platyrinchus flavigularis) is a species of bird in the family Tyrannidae. It is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, although its population is believed to be decreasing.

Identification

• Small bird, 9.5 to 10.2 cm long, with a large head and stubby tail.
• Mostly bright rufous-brown head with a partially hidden white crown patch and yellowish lores.
• Bright yellow throat with pale yellow underparts and an indistinct olivaceous breast band.
• Wide, flat bill with a blackish maxilla and pale yellow mandible; pink legs.
• Song is a rapid, rising trill ending in a sharp squeak, described as "brrrreeEEEE'PEW!".

Habitat

Found in Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela, inhabiting the undergrowth of foothill and montane forest. In Ecuador, it favours ridgetops with an open understory. Elevations range from 750 m in Ecuador to 2,400 m in Colombia.

Diet

Assumed to feed on arthropods, though specific foraging behaviour has not been documented. The bird is difficult to observe and often perches motionless in the open for extended periods.

Did you know?

The species has a disjunct distribution, yet its conservation status is considered to probably merit re-assessment despite no immediate threats being identified. It is described as scarce and inconspicuous in Ecuador but at least locally fairly common in Venezuela.