White-throated Spadebill

The White-throated Spadebill, a diminutive member of the tyrant flycatcher family, is a bird that captures the imagination with its distinctive features. It measures a mere 3.8 inches in length and weighs approximately 0.33 ounces. This species is characterized by its large eyes, very short tail, and a bill that is broad and flat, reminiscent of a spade. The bird's plumage is a study in contrasts: dark olive brown on the upperparts, buff on the underparts, and a striking white throat. A concealed yellow crest adorns the crown, which the male proudly erects while singing.

Identification Tips

To identify the White-throated Spadebill, look for the long yellowish supercilium, blackish ear coverts, and a yellow eyering. A black stripe runs down each side of the neck, and the bill is black above, brown below. Both sexes are similar, though the female sports a smaller crown patch. Juveniles differ with brighter and ruddier upperparts, no crown patch, and a grey throat that fades to a whitish belly.

Habitat

This species thrives in wet hill forests, showing a preference for areas with dense, tangled undergrowth and medium-sized trees, typically between 33 and 100 feet tall. It is often found in forests overgrown with epiphytes and hemiepiphytes.

Distribution

The White-throated Spadebill is a resident from Costa Rica through South America to western Ecuador, Brazil, and northeastern Argentina. It is also found on the islands of Trinidad and Tobago.

Behaviour

A solitary and active bird, the White-throated Spadebill is a challenge to spot as it flits rapidly through the undergrowth. It occasionally joins mixed-species feeding flocks and captures small arthropods with a sudden, upward-darting sally flight, accompanied by an audible bill-snap.

Song & calls

While not particularly vocal, the White-throated Spadebill does emit a sharp "chweet" call.

Breeding

The species constructs a deep cup nest from dead grass and plant fibers, placing it low in a sapling. The typical clutch consists of two yellow-tinged white eggs adorned with a rufous wreath.

Similar Species

There are subspecies and potential similar species within the White-throated Spadebill's range, but the taxonomy is currently uncertain. Variations exist in the brightness of the underparts and the crown color among these subspecies.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the White-throated Spadebill is primarily composed of small arthropods, which it captures with agility and precision.

Conservation status

The IUCN has classified the White-throated Spadebill as Least Concern, indicating that it is not currently at risk of extinction in the wild.