Crimson-collared Grosbeak

The Crimson-collared Grosbeak, known scientifically as Periporphyrus celaeno, is a medium-sized bird that shares its family, Cardinalidae, with the familiar Northern Cardinal. This species exhibits a striking contrast in plumage, with mature males adorned in black feathers complemented by a collar of a rich, dull red or pinkish hue that extends to the nape, shoulders, and belly. The belly itself is mottled with black. Females, while sharing the black head and breast of the males, present with greenish upperparts and yellowish underparts. Juveniles resemble females but with less pronounced black markings. The species is characterized by a robust, black beak, the upper mandible of which projects almost perpendicularly from the forehead.

Identification Tips

When identifying the Crimson-collared Grosbeak, look for the distinctive red or pinkish "collar" on mature males, which is a key feature setting them apart from similar species. Females and young birds can be recognized by their greenish and yellowish tones, respectively. The bird's size, ranging from 20.2 to 23.5 cm in length, and its large, stubby beak are also helpful identification markers.

Habitat

This grosbeak favors habitats that are humid or semi-arid, including forests and secondary growth areas. It can be found from lowland to highland regions, where it may occasionally be observed foraging on the forest floor.

Distribution

The Crimson-collared Grosbeak is primarily a resident of northeastern Mexico, with its range extending from central Nuevo León and central Tamaulipas down to northern Veracruz. It is known to make rare appearances in the Rio Grande Valley of southern Texas, particularly during the winter months.

Behaviour

The grosbeak is often seen alone, in pairs, or as part of mixed-species flocks. It has a tendency to skulk, which can make it a challenge to spot in its natural environment.

Song & Calls

The bird's vocalizations include a warbling song that typically slurs upward at the end. Its calls are penetrating whistles that begin with an "s" sound and are either slurred downward or follow a pattern of one whistle upward and then one downward.

Breeding

Breeding behavior involves the construction of a bulky cup-shaped nest composed of grass and twigs, strategically placed within a bush. The female lays a clutch of two or three pale blue-grey eggs, adorned with brown markings.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List categorizes the Crimson-collared Grosbeak as Least Concern, indicating that, currently, there are no significant threats to its population.