Teretistris fernandinae
The Yellow-headed Warbler, *Teretistris fernandinae*, is a striking and active songbird endemic to the western and central regions of Cuba. Measuring about 13 cm (5.1 inches) in length and weighing around 7-8 grams, it is characterized by its bright yellow head, throat, and underparts, contrasting sharply with a slate-gray back and white vent. Distinctive field marks include this vivid yellow coloration, the absence of wing bars or eye-rings, and its restless, inquisitive foraging style. Taxo...
This species primarily inhabits dense broadleaf forests, woodlands, and evergreen thickets, often favoring areas with abundant undergrowth and humidity. It can be found from sea level up to moderate elevations in mountainous regions.
The Yellow-headed Warbler is predominantly insectivorous, feeding on a variety of small insects, including caterpillars, beetles, and flies, as well as spiders. It forages by actively gleaning prey from foliage and bark.
Yellow-headed Warblers are diurnal and highly active birds, constantly flitting through vegetation in search of prey. Their primary foraging strategy involves actively gleaning insects and spiders from leaves, twigs, and bark, often at lower to mid-canopy levels, occasionally hovering briefly. Du...
The Yellow-headed Warbler is strictly endemic to Cuba, primarily occupying the western and central parts of the island. Its breeding and year-round distribution extends from the province of Pinar del Río in the west, eastward through Matanzas, Cienfuegos, Villa Clara, and Sancti Spíritus. It is a...
Least Concern
- The Yellow-headed Warbler is one of only two species in the avian family Teretistridae, both of which are endemic to Cuba. - Despite its common name, it is not a 'true' New World Warbler (family Parulidae) and has a distinct evolutionary history. - Its specific epithet, 'fernandinae,' honors Ma...