Loxigilla noctis
The Lesser Antillean Bullfinch (Loxigilla noctis) is a striking, sexually dimorphic passerine endemic to the volcanic islands of the Lesser Antilles, belonging to the family Thraupidae, the tanagers. Males are predominantly glossy black, punctuated by a vivid brick-red throat patch and similarly colored undertail coverts, creating an unmistakable identification mark. They typically measure 13-15 cm (5.1-5.9 in) in length and weigh 13-19 grams (0.46-0.67 oz), possessing a stout, conical bill p...
This species primarily inhabits a variety of lowland to mid-elevation environments, including moist forests, dry woodlands, secondary growth, scrub, plantations, and even urban gardens.
The diet is omnivorous, primarily consisting of seeds (especially from grasses and herbs), fruits, berries, and nectar, supplemented with various insects and spiders. They forage by gleaning from vegetation, on the ground, and probing flowers.
Lesser Antillean Bullfinches are generally diurnal and can be quite secretive, often observed foraging quietly in dense vegetation, though males may sing prominently from exposed perches. Foraging occurs both on the ground, where they glean fallen seeds and small invertebrates, and in the canopy,...
The Lesser Antillean Bullfinch is a resident species distributed throughout the volcanic islands of the Lesser Antilles, from Saint Martin in the north to Grenada in the south. Its breeding range encompasses islands such as Saint Martin, Saba, Saint Eustatius, Saint Kitts, Nevis, Montserrat, Guad...
Least Concern
- The Lesser Antillean Bullfinch is known for its remarkably strong, conical bill, perfectly adapted for crushing tough seeds, a crucial skill for its island diet. - Despite its common name, genetic studies place it firmly within the tanager family (Thraupidae), rather than the true finches (Frin...