Spot-crowned Barbet

The Spot-crowned Barbet, Capito maculicoronatus, is a small, vibrant bird with a length ranging from 16 to 18 cm (6.3 to 7.1 in) and a weight between 44 to 66 g (1.6 to 2.3 oz). The male of the species is predominantly black with a distinctive crown of brown-white spots. Its throat is a stark white, transitioning to a yellow or orange upper breast, and culminating in a white lower breast and belly adorned with black spots. A splash of yellow or orange graces the flanks. The female, in contrast, is characterized by a black throat and upper breast.

Identification Tips

To identify the Spot-crowned Barbet, look for the male's spotted crown and the contrast between the white throat and the yellow to orange upper breast. The female can be recognized by her black throat and upper breast. The subspecies C. m. rubrilateralis is marked by more white on the crown and a flank mark that ranges from orange to red.

Habitat

This species typically resides in wet primary forests, both in lowlands and hill country, and can also be found in secondary forests. It favors elevations between 600 and 900 m (2,000 and 3,000 ft), although it has been spotted up to 1,200 m (3,900 ft) in certain areas.

Distribution

The Spot-crowned Barbet is native to Central and South America, with the nominate subspecies found from Panama's Veraguas Province east to the Canal Zone. The subspecies C. m. rubrilateralis extends from eastern Panama into Colombia, reaching as far east as Antioquia Department and as far south as Valle Department.

Behaviour

This barbet is known to forage from the mid-levels to the canopy of the forest, seeking out fruits, berries, and insects. It may forage in small groups, and gatherings of up to 10 have been observed in fruiting trees. The species has also been noted to follow swarms of army ants.

Song & Calls

The principal vocalization of the Spot-crowned Barbet is a series of harsh "kkaaak" notes that transition into "kkkaakkk" sounds. This vocalization serves as both its song and call.

Breeding

Indications of a breeding season for the Spot-crowned Barbet range from December to late spring. This is inferred from observations of adults in breeding condition, nest excavation, and sightings of fledglings. Notably, one nest was tended by a male and two females.

Conservation Status

The IUCN has classified the Spot-crowned Barbet as Least Concern. It is considered uncommon to fairly common within its range.