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Photo: © Rob Felix eBird S41652922 Macaulay Library ML 83983671
black-headed-hemispingus

Black-headed Hemispingus

Pseudospingus verticalis
Hemispingus Tiznado
map-colombia-black-headed-hemispingus
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Song

Black-headed Hemispingus

Appearance:  The Black-headed Hemispingus is a small bird measuring around 14-15 cm in length. As its name suggests, it has a distinctive black head. The rest of its body is olive-green, with some variations in shading. The underparts are usually lighter. It may have subtle markings or variations in color that can help in identifying it, but the black head is the most prominent feature.
Habitat: This species is found in the West, Central and Eastern cordilleras of the country. It inhabits montane forests, often at elevations ranging from 2,900 to 3,600 meters. It is typically found in humid forest environments, including cloud forests and forest edges.
Behavior: The Black-headed Hemispingus feeds on insects, but it may also consume fruits and seeds. It is often seen in pairs or small groups and may join mixed-species flocks when foraging.
Breeding:  Information on its breeding habits is somewhat limited, but like many forest birds, it likely builds its nest in dense vegetation: Specific details about its breeding season, clutch size, and parental care are not well-documented.
Conservation status: The Black-headed Hemispingus is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN.

Distribution

Central Andes: The Black-headed Hemispingus is commonly found in the central range of the Andes in Colombia. This includes areas in the departments of Antioquia, Caldas, Quindío, Risaralda, and Tolima. These regions offer habitats of cloud forests and elfin forests at elevations typically ranging from 1,800 to 3,500 m above sea level.

Eastern Andes: It is also present in the eastern range of the Andes, particularly in the departments of Cundinamarca, Boyacá, and Santander. The bird inhabits similar high-altitude forested environments, including areas within national parks and protected reserves.

Western Andes: While less common, the Black-headed Hemispingus can also be found in parts of the western Andes in the departments of Chocó and Valle del Cauca. The species favors the humid montane forests found in these areas.

Taxonomy

The Black-headed Hemispingus (Pseudospingus verticalis)
  • Kingdom: Animalia
  • Phylum: Chordata
  • Class: Aves (Birds)
  • Order: Passeriformes
  • Family: Thraupidae
  • Genus: Pseudospingus
  • Species: Pseudospingus verticalis

Vocalization

Songs: The Black-headed Hemispingus uses songs to establish and defend its territory. They play a role in attracting mates. The song is often a series of high-pitched, melodic notes, which can vary slightly between individuals.

Calls: These are usually shorter and simpler than songs and are used for a variety of purposes. To maintain communication between individuals within flocks or between mates.

Alarm Calls: To warn other birds of potential predators or threats. These calls tend to be sharp and quick, designed to alert without giving away the caller's location.
Purpose of Vocalization

Territorial Defense: By singing, males can assert their presence and deter other males from encroaching on their territory.

Mate Attraction: Males may use song to attract females, showcasing their fitness and genetic quality.

Social Interaction: Calls help maintain social bonds within flocks or family groups, facilitating coordination and cohesion.

Predator Alerts: Alarm calls serve to warn other birds of imminent danger, increasing the survival chances of the caller and its group.