Basileuterus tacarcunae
The Tacarcuna Warbler (Basileuterus tacarcunae) is a striking Neotropical songbird, a true jewel of the cloud forests in its restricted range. Measuring approximately 12.5-13.5 cm (5 inches) in length and weighing around 12-14 grams, it features bright yellow underparts that contrast sharply with its olive-green upperparts. Its most distinctive field marks are its grey head, adorned with a brilliant yellow supercilium extending behind the eye, and prominent black lateral crown stripes that fr...
Found primarily in humid montane cloud forests, forest edges, and dense second growth, typically at elevations between 1,000 and 1,800 meters (3,300-5,900 feet).
Primarily insectivorous, feeding on a variety of small invertebrates, including beetles, caterpillars, spiders, and other arthropods, gleaned from foliage and branches.
The Tacarcuna Warbler is a highly active, diurnal species, constantly foraging in the lower to middle strata of its forest habitat. It frequently joins mixed-species flocks, moving methodically through foliage, gleaning insects from leaves, twigs, and bark, often with a rapid, jerky movement. Mal...
The Tacarcuna Warbler's distribution is highly restricted, confined to the Darién highlands of eastern Panama and adjacent northwestern Colombia. Specifically, it is found in the Serranía del Darién and Serranía del Baudó mountain ranges. This species is non-migratory, remaining in its montane cl...
Least Concern
- The Tacarcuna Warbler is named after the Serranía de Tacarcuna, a mountain range in the Darién region where it was first discovered. - It is often considered an 'ecological indicator' species due to its reliance on pristine montane cloud forest habitats. - Despite its vibrant coloration, its re...