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Rufous-capped Warbler

These birds have a small range, but are common in Central America.

The Rufous-capped Warbler is a rare species in the United States.  It is not reported most years, and then only one or two individuals.

 

Description of the Rufous-capped Warbler

BREEDING MALE

Tail usually cocked, robust body.  Rufous crown, white line over the eye, red to rear of eye.  White under the eye.  Yellow chest and upper belly. Olive back without wingbars.  Short, rounded wings.

Female

Sexes similar.

Seasonal change in appearance

None.

Juvenile

Similar to adults.

Habitat

Scrub or brush, often near oak woods.

Diet

Insects and spiders.

Behavior

They find food by scanning very close to the ground looking for sudden movements.  (Dunn and Garrett 1997)

Range

Mexico to Central and South America. Occasional reports in Texas and Arizona.

Fun Facts

Often flicks its cocked, spiny-looking tail in a sideways motion.

Vocalizations

A “chit-chit-chit-chit” call.  Sometimes it gives a call with a higher sounding “tsi”. (Dunn and Garrett 1997)

Similar Species

  • No similar species in the United States.

Nesting

A dome shaped nest with a side entrance. Nest made of plants and fibers placed on the side of steep banks, rocks or logs.

Number: Usually 3-4.?

Incubation and fledging:
– The young hatch at about 12-14 days?
– Young fledge at about 9-12 days, though remaining dependent on the adults for some time.

Bent Life History of the Rufous-capped Warbler

Not available.

About the Author

Sam Crowe

Sam is the founder of Birdzilla.com. He has been birding for over 30 years and has a world list of over 2000 species. He has served as treasurer of the Texas Ornithological Society, Sanctuary Chair of Dallas Audubon, Editor of the Cornell Lab of Ornithology's "All About Birds" web site and as a contributing editor for Birding Business magazine. Many of his photographs and videos can be found on the site.

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