Black-crowned Tityra

Overview

The black-crowned tityra (Tityra inquisitor) is a medium-sized passerine bird found throughout much of the Americas. It is classified by the IUCN as a species of Least Concern, despite a believed decrease in its population.

Identification

• Males possess a mostly black head with whitish gray upperparts, black wings and tail, and white underparts.
• Females display a buffy forehead with a black cap on a chestnut face, and upperparts that are slightly darker gray with dusky brownish streaks and coarse blackish spots.
• Adults measure between 16.5 and 20.5 cm in length and have blackish legs and feet.
• Vocalisations include husky grunting, dry guttural notes, and variable calls such as "sheh-shehk" or "zick-zick-zick".

Habitat

The species inhabits lowland evergreen and secondary forests in tropical and lower subtropical zones, favouring the forest canopy, edges, clearings, and areas along waterways. It is also found in plantations and várzea forest, generally occurring from sea level up to approximately 1,200 m.

Diet

This bird feeds mostly on fruits, with invertebrates also included in its diet. It forages singly, in pairs, or in small family groups, typically perching in the open and striking upward to take food from foliage in the mid-story to canopy layers.

Did you know?

The species is not highly vocal, yet produces a variety of distinct sounds including a strange, thin "corre corre" call.