Tit-like Dacnis

Overview

The tit-like dacnis (Xenodacnis parina) is a small neotropical passerine bird found in southern Ecuador and Peru. In Spanish, the species is known as Azulito Altoandino.

Identification

• Males are solid deep blue with dark eyes, bill, and feet.
• Females are duller than males, featuring rufous-brown underparts.
• Adults reach a length of 12.5 cm.

Habitat

The bird is found in Andean montane scrub forests at elevations ranging from 3000 m to 4600 m. Its range is limited to southern Ecuador and Peru.

Did you know?

The genus name Xenodacnis combines the Ancient Greek word for 'different' or 'unusual' with the genus name Dacnis, while the specific epithet parina is from Modern Latin and means 'tit like'.