The
Rufous-capped Warbler is a tropical warbler of Mexico and Central America
and as far south as Venezuela, but they have been found in the United States
on occasion. Most sightings have been in far southern Texas, but they
have also been found in Arizona. Sightings used to be considered extremely
rare, but they have increased in recent years, with sightings now almost
every year. Nesting pairs have now been confirmed in Arizona.
They are very active birds, moving quickly on the ground or through low
vegetation, keeping its tail cocked and occasionally flicking it as it goes.
However, they can be hard to see given their preference for thick cover.
Habitat
Found in tropical brushland, forest edges, and forest clearings. They can use a variety of shrubby habitats, but generally avoid thick, unbroken forest lands.
Diet
Feeds on insects and spiders
Behavior
Forages on the ground or low in vegetation.
Nesting
The nest is a dome of grasses and other materials, placed on a protected slope, or next to a stump or rock. The female lays between 2 and 4 eggs, and she does most of the incubating.
Song
Song is a repeated chip-chip-chip ending with a higher trilling.
Migration
Considered a permanent resident throughout its normal range.
Interactive eBird map
Click here to access an interactive eBird map of Rufous-capped Warbler sightings
Similar Species
Similar to the Chestnut-capped Warbler, Golden-browed Warbler (neither found in the United States)
Feeders
Has attended feeders for sugar water, nuts, and fruits.
Conservation Status
Populations are stable and are found over a wide geographic range. The IUCN lists the Rufous-capped Warbler as a species of "least concern".
Photo Information
Photo by " Jei Pov " - Photo licensed under Creative Commons Attribution NonCommercial ShareAlike 2.0 Generic License
