Black-headed Saltator

The Black-headed Saltator, scientifically known as Saltator atriceps, is a robust seed-eating bird belonging to the tanager family, Thraupidae. It is a medium-sized bird, averaging 24 cm in length and weighing approximately 85 g. The adult is characterized by a slate-grey head adorned with a whitish supercilium, while its upperparts are a yellowish-green and underparts pale grey. A distinctive white throat patch edged with black and a thick, convex black bill are notable features. The legs of this species are brown.

Identification Tips

When identifying the Black-headed Saltator, look for the white throat patch and black bib, which are key distinguishing marks. The bird's larger size and darker head set it apart from similar species, along with its pale underparts that contrast with a yellow patch on the throat. Juveniles are duller in coloration and exhibit mottling on the breast and brown markings on the underparts.

Habitat

This species thrives in dense vegetation, often found in the undergrowth of forests and thickets.

Distribution

The Black-headed Saltator has a breeding range that extends from central Mexico to eastern Panama.

Behaviour

The Black-headed Saltator is known to forage at low to mid-levels, sometimes joining mixed-species flocks. It is an active bird, often seen moving through vegetation in search of food.

Song & Calls

The common call of the Black-headed Saltator is a distinctive and raucous "deeeer." Its song is a loud and scratchy series of notes, described as "cher cher jur jur weeee," which is often performed as a duet by males.

Breeding

Breeding occurs between April and July. The Black-headed Saltator lays two pale blue eggs marked with black, each measuring 24–34 mm in length and 18–23.5 mm in width, and weighing about 4.9–5.5 g. The eggs are considered large for the genus Saltator. They are nestled in a bulky, grass-lined cup nest, which is situated up to 3 meters high in a thicket.

Similar Species

The Buff-throated Saltator bears resemblance to the Black-headed Saltator but can be differentiated by its smaller size, lighter head, and the absence of the yellow throat patch.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Black-headed Saltator includes fruit, such as that of Cymbopetalum mayanum, buds, nectar, and slow-moving insects. It is an adaptable feeder, taking advantage of various food sources within its habitat.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List classifies the Black-headed Saltator as Least Concern, indicating that it currently faces no significant threats to its population.