White-vented Euphonia

The White-vented Euphonia, Euphonia minuta, is a diminutive bird, measuring a mere 9.5 cm in length. This species exhibits sexual dimorphism. The male is resplendent with blue-black upperparts and a striking yellow forehead, while his throat shimmers in a purple-black hue, contrasting with bright yellow underparts. The female, in comparison, is clad in an olive-green mantle with a more subdued whitish throat.

Identification Tips

When attempting to identify the White-vented Euphonia, look for the characteristic whitish midbelly and crissum that both sexes possess. The male's vibrant yellow forehead and purple-black throat are key distinguishing features, as is the female's olive-green upper body.

Habitat

The White-vented Euphonia frequents the canopies and edges of moist woodlands, where it can be observed flitting among the foliage.

Distribution

This species is known to inhabit two separate regions. One population is found stretching from southern Mexico down the Pacific coast to northwestern Ecuador. The other is located across northern South America, from the eastern Andean foothills to the state of Pará in Brazil, and extends southward to northern Bolivia.

Behaviour

In the wild, White-vented Euphonias are sociable birds, often seen mingling with other Euphonia species to form mixed-species flocks, a testament to their gregarious nature.

Song & Calls

The vocalizations of the White-vented Euphonia are simple yet distinctive, consisting of single notes that can be described as "beem" or "seeu."

Conservation status

The White-vented Euphonia is currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, indicating a stable population without immediate threats to its survival.