White-naped xenopsaris

The White-Naped Xenopsaris: A Bird of the South American Savannas

Imagine a bird that dances through the humid subtropical and tropical savanna climates of South America, with a unique blend of elegance and simplicity. This is the white-naped xenopsaris, a fascinating suboscine bird in the family Tityridae. How many times have you wondered about these elusive creatures?

A Brief History

The white-naped xenopsaris was first described way back in 1869, but its journey to recognition has been quite a tale. Initially placed under the becard genus Pachyramphus, it later found itself in its own monotypic genus Xenopsaris due to some morphological and behavioral differences. Can you imagine how many birds were once grouped together before their true identities were revealed?

The Family Classification

A 1989 study finally resolved the uncertainty, placing this species in Tityridae. The genus name ‘Xenopsaris’ is derived from Ancient Greek words meaning ‘stranger’ and ‘starling,’ while the specific name refers to its white nape. Isn’t it intriguing how these names tell a story of their own?

Physical Characteristics

The white-naped xenopsaris is a small bird, measuring 12.5-13 cm in length and weighing around 10 g. Its plumage is distinctive with a white face, lores, throat, breast, belly, and rump, and dusky greyish-brown wings with white edging. The species has a black crown, pale grey nape, and a stout black bill, iris, and legs. Can you picture this bird in your mind’s eye?

Sexual Dimorphism

Males have a glossy black crown, while females are duller with chestnut-tinted crowns. Juveniles resemble adults but have greyish napes and more chestnut in the crown, with scalloped feathers on the back and primaries. Isn’t it fascinating how these birds change as they grow?

Sounds and Behavior

The song of the white-naped xenopsaris is delicate and does not carry far. It is most commonly heard during the rainy season, but can be heard at any time of the day. How often have you wondered what these birds are saying to each other? The call is described as a thin, high-pitched and hesitant ‘teep, tre’e’e’e’e’a eea wu’u’u’e’e-e-e-e-e-p’ or a ‘twip, tsiweeé, tseee, ti-ti-ti-ti.’ Can you imagine the melody of their calls in the forest?

Hunting and Feeding

Birds may sometimes vary the pattern and only use part of the song. They are also described as making a squeaky and undulating screech, and males are said to whistle on the nest. Foraging males have been observed making an ascending ‘shreee’ every few seconds while hunting for insects. Isn’t it amazing how these birds adapt their behavior based on what they need?

Habitat and Distribution

The white-naped xenopsaris has a disjunct distribution, generally resident across its range but with sightings of solitary and silent birds suggesting that the species may be migratory in Bolivia and Brazil. They occupy a variety of habitats, including Caatinga scrubland, riparian woodland, lightly wooded areas, and open areas with scattered trees. How do these birds manage to thrive in such diverse environments?

Nesting and Reproduction

The species is territorial and defends its territory from males. Nests are cup-shaped, constructed from fine dry grass or woven plant fiber, and placed in tree forks 15-20m above the ground. Clutch size is three eggs, which are greenish with brown spots. Both sexes incubate eggs for 14-15 days. Chicks hatch within 24 hours, have pink mouths, and are fed by both parents for several days after fledging. Isn’t it heartwarming to see how these birds care for their young?

Status and Conservation

The white-naped xenopsaris has a stable population, occupies an enormous range of 11 million km2, and is evaluated as least concern due to its uncommon and patchy distribution. How do you think we can ensure that these birds continue to thrive in their natural habitats?

The white-naped xenopsaris, with its unique characteristics and behaviors, is a true gem of the South American savannas. Its journey from being initially grouped under one genus to finding its own place in nature highlights the complexity and beauty of avian diversity. As we continue to explore and understand these birds, let us also strive to protect their habitats and ensure that future generations can marvel at their grace and resilience.