Chlorophonia occipitalis
The Blue-crowned Chlorophonia is a small, jewel-toned bird, instantly recognizable by its dazzling plumage and compact, stout build. Measuring approximately 11-13 cm (4.3-5.1 inches) in length and weighing between 15-25 grams, it presents a vibrant spectacle in its forest habitat. Males boast an iridescent green body, brilliant azure-blue crown, black forehead and lores forming a distinctive mask, and a contrasting bright yellow lower belly and vent. Females are generally duller, with a less ...
Resident in humid evergreen and montane cloud forests, including forest edges and shade coffee plantations, typically found at elevations between 600 and 2500 meters.
Primarily frugivorous, with a strong preference for mistletoe berries (genera Phoradendron and Psittacanthus), supplemented by other small fruits and some insects, especially during the breeding season.
This diurnal species is primarily arboreal, actively foraging high in the canopy or mid-story for fruits. It typically moves in pairs or small family groups, often joining mixed-species flocks of tanagers and other frugivores. Courtship displays are not well documented but likely involve showing ...
The Blue-crowned Chlorophonia is a resident species distributed throughout Central America, from southern Mexico (specifically Chiapas and eastern Oaxaca) south through Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica, extending into western Panama. This non-migratory species primarily...
Least Concern
- Often referred to as 'living jewels' due to their extraordinarily vibrant and iridescent plumage. - They are specialist feeders on mistletoe berries, playing a crucial role in dispersing these parasitic plants. - Despite their superficial resemblance to tanagers, DNA evidence places them firmly...