Oleaginous Hemispingus

Overview

The oleaginous hemispingus (Sphenopsis frontalis) is a species of bird in the family Thraupidae. Its common name references its oily appearance, derived from its olive coloration. The species is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, although its population is thought to be declining due to habitat loss.

Identification

• Dull yellow underparts and olive-green upperparts.
• 14 cm long and weighing between 14–20 g.
• A thin, elongate yellowish supercilium that is most conspicuous near the eye.
• Gray bill and brown to fuscous legs.

Habitat

This species inhabits wet montane rainforests with dense plant growth in the mountains of Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, and Venezuela. Its elevational range varies by region, typically found between 1,400 m and 2,900 m, with specific altitudinal bands differing across its range.

Did you know?

The common name of the bird means 'having appearance of oil', a direct reference to its distinct olive coloration.