Grey-and-gold Warbler

Myiothlypis fraseri

The Grey-and-gold Warbler (Myiothlypis fraseri) is a strikingly patterned New World warbler, measuring approximately 13-14 cm (5.1-5.5 inches) in length and weighing around 10-15 grams. Its most distinctive field marks include a broad, bright golden-yellow supercilium (eyebrow stripe) contrasted sharply by a black crown stripe and a prominent black eye-stripe, creating a 'bandit mask' effect. Below the eye, a small white crescent adds further definition. The cheeks and nape are grey, while th...

Habitat

Found primarily in subtropical or tropical moist montane forests and cloud forests, often near fast-flowing streams and rivers, from lower to mid-elevations, typically 900-2,500 meters.

Diet

Primarily insectivorous, feeding on a wide variety of insects and other small arthropods, obtained mainly through gleaning from foliage and bark.

Behavior

This diurnal warbler is highly active, constantly moving through the forest understory and mid-story, often alone or in the company of mixed-species foraging flocks. It employs an active foraging strategy, gleaning insects and other small arthropods from the underside of leaves and bark, occasion...

Range

The Grey-and-gold Warbler is a resident species endemic to the Andes of South America, with its primary distribution extending from west-central Colombia, through western Ecuador, and into extreme northwestern Peru. In Colombia, it is found in the Western and Central Andes, including departments ...

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Fun Facts

- The Grey-and-gold Warbler's scientific genus, *Myiothlypis*, means 'fly-picker' or 'gnat-catcher' in Greek, reflecting its insectivorous diet. - Despite its vivid coloration, it can be remarkably difficult to spot within the dense, shaded undergrowth of its montane forest habitat, often being d...

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