Stub-tailed Spadebill

The stub-tailed spadebill, a diminutive avian resident of the Tyrannidae family, is a creature of the tropical realms. With a length of merely 9.5 cm and a weight tipping the scales at around 12 grams, it is a feathered jewel of the forest. The bird's plumage is a tapestry of earthy tones, with a brown mantle and wings, a white throat, and a yellow breast that may vary slightly between the sexes. Its name is derived from its notably short tail and the broad, flat bill characteristic of its genus, Platyrinchus.

Identification Tips

When attempting to identify the stub-tailed spadebill, look for its distinctive stubby tail and the broad bill that gives the genus its name. The bird's white throat contrasts with its yellow breast, and the brown feathering extends from the head down to the mantle and wings. The males typically exhibit a more vibrant yellow on the abdomen, while females may present a blend of brown and yellow. Pinkish feet and a unique facial pattern with yellow postocular stripes add to its identifying features. Notably, the species lacks the crown found in other Platyrinchus members, aiding in its identification.

Habitat

The stub-tailed spadebill is a denizen of tropical dry forests and subtropical moist lowlands, favoring the undergrowth where it can find food and shelter. It thrives in the dense foliage of rainforests, amidst shrubs and medium-height trees, which provide the perfect backdrop for its cryptic coloration and foraging activities.

Distribution

This species graces the forests of Central America, with its range extending from southern Mexico through parts of Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica. It has also been observed in northwestern Panama, indicating a wider dispersal ability than previously understood.

Behaviour

The stub-tailed spadebill may be encountered alone or in pairs, diligently foraging in the forest undergrowth. It is known to engage in mixed-species foraging flocks, a strategy believed to enhance protection from predators. This bird is an adept omnivore, feeding on a variety of arthropods and low-hanging fruits and berries.

Song & Calls

The bird's vocalizations are distinctive, often described as a nasal, rapid, and shaky "ki-di-di-di-rrril." These calls are typically emitted following short flights, serving as an auditory beacon in the dense forest habitat.

Breeding

During the breeding season, the stub-tailed spadebill crafts deep, cone-shaped nests from scavenged grasses and plant fibers. These nests are strategically placed in low saplings, providing a secure cradle for the next generation.

Diet and Feeding

As an omnivore, the stub-tailed spadebill's diet includes arthropods such as spiders, beetles, and ants, as well as fruits and seeds found in the lower strata of the rainforest. Its foraging behavior is adapted to the abundance of available food sources, with some individuals showing a preference for plant-based diets.

Conservation status

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has classified the stub-tailed spadebill as a species of Least Concern. Despite a noted decreasing trend in population numbers, primarily attributed to habitat loss from deforestation, the decline is not rapid enough to warrant a vulnerable status. The current population is estimated to be between 50,000 and 500,000 individuals.