Green Honeycreeper

The Green Honeycreeper (Chlorophanes spiza) is a diminutive avian jewel, a member of the tanager family. Males are resplendent with blue-green plumage and a striking black head, while females are adorned in a more subdued grass-green, with paler throats and lacking the iridescent sheen and dark cap of their male counterparts. Both sexes possess a distinctive long, decurved bill, with the male's bill often a vivid yellow. These birds typically measure between 13 to 14 centimeters in length and weigh between 14 to 23 grams.

Identification Tips

To identify the Green Honeycreeper, look for the male's blue-green body contrasted with a black head and yellow bill. Females can be recognized by their overall grass-green coloration, which is lighter on the throat. Juveniles resemble females in plumage. The species' call is a sharp "chip" that can aid in identification.

Habitat

This species is a denizen of the forest canopy, where it flits among the foliage in search of sustenance.

Distribution

The Green Honeycreeper is found throughout the tropical New World, ranging from southern Mexico down through to Brazil, and is also a resident of Trinidad.

Behaviour

The female of the species is responsible for constructing a modest cup nest within a tree, where she will incubate a clutch of two white eggs, speckled with brown, for a period of 13 days. The Green Honeycreeper is less reliant on nectar compared to its honeycreeper relatives, with a diet that is predominantly composed of fruit and seeds.

Song & Calls

The vocalization of the Green Honeycreeper is characterized by a sharp "chip," a sound that punctuates the tranquility of its forest habitat.

Breeding

During the breeding season, the female Green Honeycreeper takes on the role of nest builder and egg incubator, dedicating herself to the nurturing of her offspring.

Similar Species

While unique in its genus, the Green Honeycreeper may be confused with other honeycreepers or similarly colored tanagers. However, its distinctive bill color in males and overall green plumage set it apart.

Diet and Feeding

The Green Honeycreeper's diet is diverse, consisting of 60% fruit and seeds, supplemented by 20% nectar and a smaller proportion of insects, making up 15% of its dietary intake.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List currently classifies the Green Honeycreeper as Least Concern, indicating a stable population across its extensive range.