Saltador Alinegro
Black-winged Saltator
Saltator atripennis
Song
Black-winged Saltator
Appearance: The Black-winged Saltator is a medium-sized bird, typically measuring around 20-23 cm in length. It is characterized by its striking black wings and tail. The rest of its body is generally grayish, with a paler underbelly. It may have a hint of olive or green on its back. The bird has a distinctive white supercilium (eyebrow line) and a black mask that extends from the beak through the eye. It has a strong, conical beak, typical of seed-eating birds.
Habitat: The Black-winged Saltator is primarily found in the Andean regions of Colombia and Ecuador. It inhabits subtropical or tropical moist montane forests, often at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,400 meters. It can also be found in forest edges and secondary growth areas.
Behavior: The species primarily feeds on fruits, seeds, and insects. Its strong beak is well-adapted to cracking seeds. Black-winged Saltators are often seen in pairs or small groups. They are known for their vocalizations, which include a variety of whistles and calls. These birds are typically active during the day and spend much of their time foraging in the mid to upper levels of the forest canopy.
Breeding: Little detailed information is available about their breeding habits. However, like many saltators, they likely build cup-shaped nests. Breeding behavior and seasonality are not well-documented but are assumed to follow similar patterns to related species, involving courtship displays and territorial behavior.
Conservation Status: The Black-winged Saltator is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN.
Distribution
.Western Andes: The western slopes of the Andes in Colombia offer a range of altitudes and habitats where the Black-winged Saltator can thrive. These areas have dense vegetation and a climate that supports their lifestyle.
Valle del Cauca: This department, located in the western part of Colombia, includes areas of suitable habitat for the Black-winged Saltator, particularly in its more forested regions.
Antioquia: Some parts of Antioquia, especially those with forested areas, can also host populations of this bird.
These regions provide the necessary environmental conditions such as dense forest cover and a humid climate, which are preferred by the Black-winged Saltator.
Taxonomy
The Black-winged Saltator (Saltator atripennis)
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves (Birds)
- Order: Passeriformes
- Family: Thraupidae
- Genus: Saltator
- Species: Saltator atripennis
Vocalization
Song: The Black-winged Saltator is known for its melodious and clear song. Its song is a series of whistles and chirps that can be quite musical. These vocalizations are often used to establish territory and attract mates.
Calls: Apart from its song, the Black-winged Saltator also has a variety of calls. These can include alarm calls to warn of predators, contact calls to maintain communication with mates or other members of its species, and other social calls used in different contexts.
Purpose of Vocalizations:
Territorial Defense: The song is crucial for establishing and maintaining territory. By singing, a male Black-winged Saltator can signal its presence and ward off potential intruders.
Mate Attraction: During the breeding season, males use their songs to attract females. A strong, clear song can indicate the health and vitality of the singer, making him more attractive to potential mates.
Communication: Vocalizations are also essential for communication between individuals, whether it's coordinating with a mate, signaling readiness to breed, or maintaining group cohesion.
Alarm and Warning: Calls can serve as alarms to alert other birds of predators or threats, helping to protect the community.
