Bananaquit

The Bananaquit (Coereba flaveola) is a diminutive, yet vibrant bird belonging to the tanager family Thraupidae. This active nectarivore is adorned with a striking plumage, primarily characterized by dark grey upperparts, a black crown, and a conspicuous white eyestripe. The underparts are a radiant yellow, providing a stark contrast to the grey throat and white vent. Both sexes share a similar appearance, though juveniles present a more subdued coloration with hints of yellow on the eyebrows and throat.

Identification Tips

When identifying the Bananaquit, look for its dark grey to black upperparts and the prominent white eyestripe that stands out against the black head. The chest, belly, and rump are a bright yellow, and the grey throat transitions to a white vent. The bird's tongue is notably paddle-shaped, an adaptation for nectar feeding. Juveniles may be recognized by their less vivid plumage and partially yellow eyebrows and throat.

Habitat

The Bananaquit thrives in a variety of open to semi-open environments, including gardens and parks. It is less commonly found in deserts, dense forests, or at high altitudes exceeding 2,000 meters.

Distribution

This species is a resident of tropical South America, extending northward to southern Mexico and throughout the Caribbean. It is notably absent from Cuba but has been recorded as a rare visitor to Florida from the Bahamas.

Behaviour

The Bananaquit exhibits a remarkable adaptability to human environments and is often seen in gardens, where it may become quite tame. It is known for its affinity for sugar, earning the nickname "sugar bird." The bird is an adept nectar feeder, using its specialized tongue to extract nectar from flowers, though it may also engage in nectar robbing by piercing flowers from the side. Additionally, it consumes fruits, insects, and other small arthropods.

Breeding

The female Bananaquit is solely responsible for incubating the eggs, which are laid in a spherical nest with a side entrance. The nest may be constructed in natural settings or within human-made structures. Breeding occurs throughout the year, with new nests being built continuously.

Diet and Feeding

The Bananaquit's diet consists primarily of nectar, which it obtains from flowers using its specialized tongue. It also feeds on fruits, such as berries and ripe bananas, and occasionally consumes insects and other small arthropods. The bird is unable to hover like a hummingbird and must perch while feeding.

Conservation status

The Bananaquit is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, indicating that it is not currently at significant risk of extinction.