Atlapetes melanocephalus
The Santa Marta Brushfinch (Atlapetes melanocephalus) is a striking New World Sparrow, endemic to the isolated Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountain range in northern Colombia. Measuring approximately 17 cm (6.7 inches) in length and weighing around 30 grams, it is easily identified by its distinctive entirely black head, contrasting bright white iris, and a small, often concealed white spot on its chin. Its upperparts are a rich olive-green, while the underparts are a vibrant yellow, fading ...
Found primarily in dense undergrowth, shrubby borders, and forest edges of humid montane cloud forest, elfin forest, and páramo transitions at elevations between 1,200 and 3,200 meters.
Primarily insectivorous, feeding on beetles, caterpillars, orthopterans, and other arthropods, supplemented with small fruits and seeds obtained by gleaning from foliage and the ground.
This brushfinch is a diurnal and rather skulking species, often heard more frequently than seen as it forages within dense vegetation. It typically moves in pairs or small family groups, occasionally joining mixed-species flocks, especially during the non-breeding season. Foraging primarily invol...
The Santa Marta Brushfinch is strictly endemic to the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountain range in northern Colombia, representing one of the most geographically restricted ranges for any Neotropical bird. It is a resident species, with no known migratory movements, remaining within its montane...
Near Threatened
- The Santa Marta Brushfinch is one of only a handful of bird species entirely endemic to the isolated Santa Marta Mountains of Colombia. - Its striking white iris against a black head is a unique and key identification feature among brushfinches. - It is often described as a 'skulker,' meaning i...