Rufous-capped Warbler

The Rufous-capped Warbler, scientifically known as Basileuterus rufifrons, is a small bird native to the New World, with a length of approximately 12.7 cm (5.0 inches). Its plumage is a blend of plain-olive to olive-gray on the upper parts, with a bright yellow chest and throat. The bird is adorned with a distinctive rufous cap and facial pattern, which includes a white eyebrow-line, a dark eye-line that fades into a rufous cheek, and a white malar stripe.

Identification Tips

To identify the Rufous-capped Warbler, look for its stout bill, round and stubby wings, and a long tail that is often held at a high angle and flicked. The combination of the rufous cap, white eyebrow-line, and bright yellow throat make it quite distinctive among warblers.

Habitat

In its northern range, the Rufous-capped Warbler is typically found in oak woodland canyon bottoms, particularly near running water. It prefers to stay low in dense vegetation.

Distribution

This species ranges from Mexico to Guatemala, with occasional sightings as far north as southeastern Arizona and south Texas. Birds in the southern part of the range have been classified as a separate species, the Chestnut-capped Warbler (Basileuterus delattrii).

Behaviour

The Rufous-capped Warbler is known for foraging through dense brush, scanning close to the ground for movement. It is not typically observed flycatching from perches.

Song & Calls

The courtship song is a rapid, accelerating series of chipping notes, reminiscent of the Rufous-crowned Sparrow. The call note is a hard "chik" or "tsik," often repeated. Males exhibit complex songs with many syllable types, showing seasonal, temporal, and annual variation in song use.

Similar Species

The Rufous-capped Warbler could potentially be confused with other warblers with rufous or chestnut caps, but its distinctive facial pattern and song are key differentiators.

Diet and Feeding

The diet consists primarily of insects and spiders. The Rufous-capped Warbler actively forages through dense vegetation, looking for movement to locate its prey.

Conservation Status

The Rufous-capped Warbler is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating that it does not face any significant immediate threat to its survival.