Spindalis zena
The Western Spindalis, *Spindalis zena*, is a striking, medium-sized songbird, measuring about 13-17 cm (5.1-6.7 in) in length and weighing 17-30 g (0.6-1.1 oz). Males are particularly vibrant, displaying a bold pattern of black, white, and bright yellow to orange-yellow. Their most distinctive field marks include a black head with prominent white superciliary and malar stripes, a black throat patch, and a brilliant yellow-orange nape and underparts, often transitioning to a whitish belly. Fe...
Found in a variety of wooded habitats, including humid broadleaf forests, pine forests, woodlands, forest edges, and cultivated areas with scattered trees. Prefers mid-elevations but can occur from sea level up to 2,000 meters.
Primarily frugivorous, consuming a wide variety of berries and small fruits, supplemented with insects and spiders gleaned from foliage.
Western Spindalis are primarily diurnal, spending much of their day foraging in the canopy or mid-story. They are adept at gleaning fruits and insects from foliage, often hanging acrobatically to reach ripe berries. During the non-breeding season, they may form small, loose flocks or join mixed-s...
The Western Spindalis is primarily resident throughout the Greater Antilles and the Bahamas. Its main breeding range encompasses Cuba, Grand Cayman, Jamaica, Hispaniola (Dominican Republic and Haiti), and Puerto Rico, as well as several islands within the Bahama chain, such as Grand Bahama and Ab...
Least Concern
- The Western Spindalis was once classified within the diverse tanager family (Thraupidae) but was elevated to its own family, Spindalidae, in 2017, highlighting its unique evolutionary lineage. - Its bright yellow-orange and black plumage, particularly in males, makes it one of the most vividly ...