Rhytipterna holerythra
The Rufous Mourner (Rhytipterna holerythra) is a strikingly uniform, medium-sized passerine bird, often described as having an entirely rich rufous-cinnamon plumage, giving it a distinct and unmistakable appearance. It typically measures between 18-20 cm (7.1-7.9 in) in length and weighs around 40-50 grams (1.4-1.8 oz), with a relatively short, dark bill and dark brown eyes. Its most distinctive field mark is this overall warm reddish-brown coloration, lacking any prominent streaks, bars, or ...
This species primarily inhabits the middle and upper strata of humid evergreen forests, including primary, secondary, and gallery forests. It is typically found at elevations ranging from sea level up to about 1,200-1,500 meters (3,900-4,900 ft).
The diet of the Rufous Mourner is omnivorous, consisting primarily of a variety of insects, especially larger ones, and a significant proportion of small fruits and berries. It forages by sallying and gleaning in the forest canopy and mid-story.
The Rufous Mourner is a rather shy and unobtrusive bird, often difficult to observe despite its distinctive plumage. It forages solitarily or in pairs, frequently joining mixed-species flocks, moving methodically through the canopy and sub-canopy. Its foraging strategy involves sallying out to ca...
The Rufous Mourner boasts a wide, disjunct distribution across Central and South America. In Central America, it is found from southeastern Honduras through Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panama, extending southward into northwestern Colombia. Its South American range is more extensive, encompassing ...
Least Concern
- The Rufous Mourner's scientific name, Rhytipterna holerythra, literally translates to 'wrinkled wing' (Rhytipterna) and 'entirely red' (holerythra), aptly describing its uniform plumage. - Despite its vivid all-rufous coloration, it is notoriously difficult to spot in the dense forest understor...