Painted Whitestart

The Painted Redstart, or Painted Whitestart, is a striking member of the New World warbler family. This species, Myioborus pictus, is distinguished by its size, reaching up to 6 inches in length, including the tail. The adult boasts a glossy black plumage, contrasted by white wing stripes and a vivid red belly, making it a sight to behold in its natural habitat.

Identification Tips

To identify the Painted Redstart, look for the following characteristics: a predominantly black body, a bright red lower breast and belly, large white patches on the wings, and white outer tail feathers. The bird's bill and legs are blackish, and both sexes share a similar appearance, though males are slightly larger on average.

Habitat

These warblers favor open oak woodlands and canyons, thriving at elevations between 4,900 and 8,200 feet. They are commonly found in the mountainous regions of Central America and Mexico, extending north to the Madrean sky islands and Mogollon Rim in Arizona and New Mexico, as well as Big Bend National Park in Texas.

Distribution

The Painted Redstart's range spans from Arizona and New Mexico in the southern United States to Oaxaca and Veracruz in Mexico. Some northern populations migrate to the southern parts of their range during winter. The species has also been observed as far south as Nicaragua and as far north as California, though such sightings are rare.

Behaviour

These warblers are thought to be entirely insectivorous. They exhibit a unique behavior during spring courtship, where pairs bond by singing together, with females being as capable of song as males—a rarity among warblers.

Song & Calls

The Painted Redstart's vocal abilities are notable, with females matching the singing prowess of males. During the breeding season, their melodic duets can be a delightful chorus in the woodlands they inhabit.

Breeding

Nesting occurs on the ground, often concealed among rocks, roots, or grass tufts on steep slopes. Their nests are large and shallow, made from bark strips, plant fibers, leaves, and grass. The female lays 3 to 4 white or cream-colored eggs, speckled with fine brown and reddish spots. Incubation takes about 14 days, though other details of their nesting habits remain elusive.

Similar Species

While the Painted Redstart is distinctive in its coloration, it may be confused with other black and red or black and white warblers. However, its large white wing patches and the specific pattern of red and white on the body help distinguish it from its relatives.

Diet and Feeding

The Painted Redstart is an insectivore, gleaning its prey from foliage in its woodland habitat. Its diet consists of various insects, which it captures with agility and precision.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List classifies the Painted Redstart as Least Concern, indicating that, currently, there are no immediate threats to its population levels. However, continued monitoring is essential to ensure this species remains secure.