Hemispingus de Antifaz
Black-eared Hemispingus
Sphenopsis melanotis
Song
Black-eared Hemispingus
Appearance: The Black-eared Hemispingus is a small bird, measuring around 15 cm (6 in) in length. It has a compact body with a relatively short tail. This species is characterized by its striking plumage. It generally has olive-green upperparts and yellowish underparts. The most distinctive feature is the black patch or "ear" found on the sides of its head, which gives the bird its name. It has a short, conical bill which is typical of many tanagers.
Habitat: The Black-eared Hemispingus is found in the Andes of South America including Colombia. It inhabits montane forests, particularly favoring the edges of cloud forests and secondary growth areas at elevations between 1,700 and 2,900 m.
Behavior: This bird feeds on insects and other small arthropods, but it may also consume fruits and seeds. Black-eared Hemispingus are often seen in pairs or small groups. They are known to join mixed-species foraging flocks, which can enhance their foraging efficiency and provide protection from predators.
Breeding: The breeding habits of the Black-eared Hemispingus are not extensively documented. However, like many tanagers, they likely build cup-shaped nests. Information on their clutch size and incubation period is limited, but tanagers generally lay small clutches of eggs, with both parents involved in feeding the chicks.
Conservation Status: The Black-eared Hemispingus is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN.
Distribution
Central Andes: The Black-eared Hemispingus is found in the Central Andes of Colombia, which is one of its primary habitats. This region provides the montane forests and subtropical or tropical moist montane ecosystems that the species prefers.
Eastern Andes: The species is also present in the Eastern Andes, although it might be less common than in the Central Andes. These areas also offer suitable habitats with the necessary forest cover and altitude.
Western Andes: There are records of the Black-eared Hemispingus in the Western Andes, though its presence might be more scattered compared to the Central and Eastern ranges.
Taxonomy
The Black-eared Hemispingus (Sphenopsis melanotis)
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves (Birds)
- Order: Passeriformes
- Family: Thraupidae
- Genus: Sphenopsis
- Species: Sphenopsis melanotis
Vocalization
Communication: The bird uses a range of calls to communicate with other members of its species. This can include alerting others to the presence of predators or coordinating movements within a flock.
Territorial Defense: Males often use songs to establish and defend their territory from intruders. Singing is a way to assert dominance and deter other males from encroaching on their space.
Mating: During the breeding season, vocalizations play a crucial role in attracting mates. Males may sing complex songs to demonstrate their fitness and appeal to potential female partners.
Purpose
Establishing Territory: By marking territory through song, the bird can secure resources such as food and nesting sites, which are vital for rearing young.
Social Interaction: Vocalizations are key to maintaining social bonds within flocks, which can provide safety in numbers and increase foraging efficiency.
Reproductive Success: Effective communication through song and calls can enhance reproductive success by ensuring that individuals find suitable mates and successfully rear offspring.
