Black Catbird

The Black Catbird (Melanoptila glabrirostris) is a diminutive member of the Mimidae family, the smallest in fact, with a length of 19–20.5 cm (7.5–8.1 in) and a weight ranging from 31.6–42 g (1.11–1.48 oz). Both sexes are cloaked in glossy black plumage, with a purplish or greenish sheen, and possess black legs and bill. The eyes are a dark brownish hue, adding to their enigmatic appearance.

Identification Tips

Adults exhibit a purplish or greenish gloss over their black feathers, while juveniles are more brownish-gray with mottling below. The male is typically heavier and more glossy than the female. The bill is black, shorter than the head, and the iris of adults is dark reddish, contrasting with the gray iris of juveniles.

Habitat

The Black Catbird is a bird of the Yucatán Peninsula's low elevations, favoring semi-arid to humid environments. It thrives in areas with dense thickets, scrub, or understory, and is less common in taller forests with more open undergrowth.

Distribution

This species is endemic to the Yucatán Peninsula, extending to Campeche, northern Guatemala, and northern Belize. It is also found on several offshore islands but is primarily sedentary with some localized seasonal movements.

Behaviour

The Black Catbird is not migratory, tending to remain within its habitat year-round, though some may move locally in response to seasonal changes in aridity.

Song & Calls

The Black Catbird's vocal repertoire does not include mimicry. Its song is a medley of harsh and scratchy notes interspersed with warbled, flute-like sounds, and metallic clicks. Calls are varied, including harsh rriah, nasal chrrh, and grating tcheeu, some of which resemble those of the Gray Catbird.

Breeding

Breeding season spans spring to summer. The nest is a cup of twigs in low bushes or trees, where the female lays two bluish eggs. Specifics on incubation and fledging are not well documented.

Similar Species

The Black Catbird could be confused with other black birds in its range, such as the Melodious Blackbird, Bronzed Cowbird, and Giant Cowbird. However, differences in size, tail length, neck thickness, and eye color can help distinguish them.

Diet and Feeding

While detailed studies are lacking, the Black Catbird is presumed to be omnivorous, consuming fruits of trees like Bursera simaruba and Ficus cotinifolia.

Conservation Status

The Black Catbird is classified as Near Threatened due to habitat loss and a population estimated at under 50,000. The recent arrival of the Shiny Cowbird, a brood parasite, may pose an additional threat to this species.