Geothlypis flavovelata
The Altamira Yellowthroat, Geothlypis flavovelata, is a striking and charismatic New World Warbler (family Parulidae) endemic to a restricted region of northeastern Mexico. Measuring approximately 13 cm (5.1 in) in length and weighing about 10-12 grams, this small songbird boasts brilliant plumage, with a vibrant olive-green back, bright yellow underparts, and distinct yellow flanks. Its most prominent field marks include a solid, unstreaked bright yellow crown, which contrasts sharply with t...
Exclusively inhabits lowland freshwater marshes, reedbeds, and dense, shrubby vegetation immediately adjacent to water sources. Found at very low elevations, typically near sea level, in humid subtropical and tropical environments.
Primarily insectivorous, consuming a wide variety of small insects and spiders. Forages by actively gleaning prey from dense low vegetation and occasionally performing short aerial sallies.
A typically secretive warbler, the Altamira Yellowthroat is diurnal, spending most of its time foraging low in dense cover. Males are highly territorial, announcing their presence with frequent, emphatic songs delivered from hidden perches within their marshy domains. They are primarily insectivo...
The Altamira Yellowthroat is a non-migratory resident, confined to a geographically restricted area within the coastal lowlands of northeastern Mexico. Its primary distribution encompasses southern Tamaulipas and northern Veracruz, extending south from approximately Altamira, Tamaulipas, to Lagun...
Least Concern
- The Altamira Yellowthroat is the only species in its genus, *Geothlypis*, to possess a completely unstreaked, uniformly bright yellow crown, setting it apart from its relatives. - Its scientific name, *flavovelata*, literally means 'yellow-veiled' or 'yellow-covered', aptly describing its disti...