The Gray-collared Becard is normally a bird of arid temperate and tropical zones of Mexico and Guatemala. It was unknown in the United States until a single female was confirmed in southeastern Arizona in 2009. Males sport a black cap and a black back, interrupted by a pale gray nape that merges with grey underparts. Females share similar black and white wing patterns but have a rich brownish back and crown, with a dark eye-stripe.
Habitat
Found in a variety of semi-open forest habitats in arid temperate zones as well as tropical zones. Potential habitats include pine-oak woodlands, moist lowland forest, moist montane forest, and tropical dry woodlands.
Diet
Feeds on insects and other small invertebrates, as well as fruits and berries.
Behavior
Usually forages at mid-level heights to the top of a forest canopy.
Nesting
Poorly understood. The first description of nesting was only recently published.
Song
A rich, warbling, repeated hoo-hoo-hoo-hoo-hoo
Migration
Considered a permanent resident throughout their range, but altitudinal shifts as seasons change have been noted.
Interactive eBird map
Click here to access an interactive eBird map of Gray-collared Becard sightings
Similar Species
Not likely to be confused with another species if seen well.
Conservation Status
Populations appear to be stable and there are no major conservation concerns. The IUCN lists the Gray-collared Becard as a species of "Least Concern".
Further Information
- eBird - Gray-collared Becard
- Audubon Field Guide - Gray-collared Becard
- Cornell Lab of Ornithology - All About Birds: Gray-collared Becard
2) C ornell's Neotropical Birds - Gray-collared Becard
3) H andbook of the Birds of the World - Gray-collared Becard
Photo Information
Photo by Jorge Montejo - Photo licensed under Creative Commons Attribution NonCommercial NoDerivs 2.0 Generic license
