The Black-headed Nightingale-Thrush is a songbird of Central America and parts of eastern Mexico. Despite breeding 200 km away in northern Mexico, the species was unknown in the United States until 2004, when a lone bird was identified in Hidalgo County, Texas. They are primarily found in mountainous forest areas, although they will move to lowlands outside of the breeding season.
Habitat:
The black-headed nightingale-thrush inhabits the dense, shady undergrowth of humid primary evergreen cloud forests and adjacent second growth in mountainous regions. It is typically found in foothills and lower highlands at elevations between 600 and 1,800 meters, preferring shaded, humid areas, often near surface water
Diet:
Feeds on insects and other small invertebrates, as well as fruits and berries.
Behavior:
Black-headed Nightingale-Thrush are rather shy, preferring to stay in thick undergrowth and bushes while they forage. The best looks at the species typically occur when the male is singing on a higher, more visible perch. They can also sometimes be seen foraging along roadsides during the early morning hours.
Nesting:
The nest is a cup of grasses, mosses, leaves, and other material, placed in a low shrub or occasionally on the ground. The female lays between 2 and 4 eggs.
Song:
The Black-headed Nightingale-Thrush produces a series of rapid, thin, and flute-like phrases often described as a jumbled, scratchy warble. These vocalizations are often delivered from low to middle-level perches in thick vegetation at dawn, dusk, or in the afternoon
Migration:
Considered a permanent resident throughout its normal range. However, some may move to lower elevations for the winter in parts of their range.
Interactive eBird map:
Click here to access an interactive eBird map of Black-headed Nightingale-Thrush sightings
Similar Species:
Obvious identification marks if seen well, not likely to be confused with another species.
Conservation Status:
Populations appear to be in decline. However, they still are found in a number of locations and are common enough in parts of their range that overall populations are not considered threatened. The IUCN lists the Black-headed Nightingale-Thrush as a species of "Least Concern ".
Photo Information:
Photo taken by Michael Woodruff - July 9th, 2008 - Costa Rica - Photo licensed under Creative Commons Attribution ShareAlike 2.0 Generic License
