Scrub Euphonia

The scrub euphonia, Euphonia affinis, presents a striking sexual dimorphism. The male is resplendent with a bright yellow underbelly and a contrasting black upper body, accented by a small yellow spot on the forecrown. The female, in contrast, sports a more subdued palette with a grey head, dusky olive upperparts, and buff-grey underparts, though she shares the white belly and crissum with her male counterpart.

Identification Tips

When identifying the scrub euphonia, look for the thin, fine bill, which is notably smaller than those of other euphonias. Both sexes have dark legs and eyes, which can be helpful distinguishing features. The male's vibrant yellow and black plumage is distinctive, while the female's more muted tones and white underparts can aid in her identification.

Habitat

This adaptable bird can be found in a variety of environments, including secondary growth, tree stands, agricultural areas, gardens, and other human-disturbed areas.

Distribution

The scrub euphonia's range extends along both coasts of Mexico, from the states of Sonora and Nuevo Leon, through much of the country east of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, including the Yucatan Peninsula. Its presence is also noted throughout Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, and the Atlantic and Central and Northern Pacific coastal lowlands of Costa Rica.

Behaviour

The scrub euphonia often associates with yellow-throated euphonias and participates in mixed species feeding flocks. It has a particular fondness for fruit, especially mistletoe berries, which form a significant part of its diet.

Song & Calls

This vocal species delights with a variety of calls, including a bright "dwee dwee dwee," a plaintive "syeeu syeeu," and a twittering flight call of "slip slip." Its song is equally enchanting, ranging from "si chi-chi-chi-si" to a liquid, twittering warble.

Breeding

The scrub euphonia constructs a globular nest with a side entrance, often nestled in tangled vegetation or another protected locale. The eggs, numbering between two and five, are whitish with brown speckles.

Diet and Feeding

A frugivorous bird, the scrub euphonia has a diet heavily laden with fruit, with a particular preference for the berries of mistletoe.

Conservation status

The IUCN has classified the scrub euphonia as Least Concern. This bird has shown a remarkable ability to adapt to human-altered environments and remains a common sight across its extensive range.