Hemispingus de Antifaz
Northern Black-eared Hemispingus (subsp.)
Sphenopsis (melanotis) melanotis
Song
Northern Black-eared Hemispingus (subsp.)
Appearance: The Northern Black-eared Hemispingus has a combination of olive-green and gray plumage. It is distinguished by a black patch around its ears, which gives it its name. This bird is small, with a compact body and a short tail. It often has a subtle yellow wash on its underparts and a slightly hooked bill.
Habitat: This subspecies is found in subtropical or tropical moist montane forests. It inhabits areas at higher elevations, often between 1700 and 2900 m above sea level.
Behavior: The Northern Black-eared Hemispingus feeds on insects and small arthropods, but it may also consume fruits and seeds. It is often seen in pairs or small groups and may join mixed-species flocks. This bird is active during the day and is known for its agile movements through the forest canopy.
Breeding: Information on the specific breeding habits of this subspecies is limited, but like other tanagers, it builds cup-shaped nests. Breeding behaviors such as courtship and incubation are not well-documented for this subspecies.
Conservation status: The overall species is not listed as threatened by the IUCN.
Distribution
The Northern Black-eared Hemispingus is found in all the ranges of the Andean regions where suitable montane forest habitats exist.
Taxonomy
The Northern Black-eared Hemispingus (subsp.) (Sphenopsis (melanotis) melanotis)
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves (Birds)
- Order: Passeriformes
- Family: Thraupidae
- Genus: Sphenopsis
- Species: Sphenopsis melanotis
- Subspecie: melanotis
Vocalization
There is limited specific information available about the distinct calls and trills of this species, like many birds in the tanager family, they are likely to produce a variety of vocalizations for communication, including calls and songs used for territory defense and mate attraction.
