Northern Beardless Tyrannulet

The Northern Beardless Tyrannulet, scientifically known as Camptostoma imberbe, is a diminutive passerine belonging to the tyrant flycatcher family. This bird, with a length of approximately 10.2 cm (4.0 in) and a weight of 7.5 g (0.26 oz), is characterized by its dark brown head adorned with an erectile crest and a pale supercilium. Its upperparts are a grey-green shade, becoming lighter towards the rump, while the wings are brown with yellow feather-edging and two whitish wing bars. The tail is brown, the throat grey, transitioning to a yellowish breast and a yellow abdomen. The bill presents a pinkish hue.

Identification Tips

When identifying the Northern Beardless Tyrannulet, look for its less vibrant appearance compared to its relative, the Southern Beardless Tyrannulet. The wing bars are not as bright, and the sexes are similar in plumage. The presence of an erectile crest and the pale supercilium are key features to note.

Habitat

This species thrives in light forests, areas of cultivation, and gardens that are populated with trees.

Distribution

The Northern Beardless Tyrannulet breeds from the southeasternmost regions of Arizona and Texas in the United States, extending through Mexico and Central America, reaching as far as northwestern Costa Rica.

Behaviour

These birds are known for their active nature, feeding in a manner akin to vireos or warblers. They exhibit courtship behaviors and signs of alarm by raising their crests, flicking their tails, and emitting an excited call.

Song & Calls

The call of the Northern Beardless Tyrannulet is a distinctive loud whistled "Fleeeeeerrr," which can vary to a "fleeer-it," or a repetitive "flee-flee-flee-flee."

Breeding

Breeding occurs year-round for this species. The domed nest, constructed from plant fiber or leaves, features a side entrance and is strategically placed in a tree fork. A typical clutch consists of two white eggs, adorned with rufous and lilac markings, predominantly at the larger end. The female incubates the eggs for 14–15 days until hatching, followed by a fledging period of 17 days.

Similar Species

The Northern Beardless Tyrannulet can be confused with the closely related Southern Beardless Tyrannulet, C. obsoletum. However, the two species do not interbreed, even in regions where their ranges overlap, such as Costa Rica.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of this bird includes insects, spiders, and berries, which they forage for actively.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List has classified the Northern Beardless Tyrannulet as Least Concern, indicating that the species currently faces no significant threats to its survival.