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==Taxonomy== | ==Taxonomy== | ||
====Subspecies==== | ====Subspecies==== | ||
| − | This is a [[ | + | This is a [[Dictionary_P-S#P|polytypic]] species consisting of four subspecies<sup>[[#References|[1]]]</sup>: |
*''M. s. saturninus'': | *''M. s. saturninus'': | ||
:*Southern [[Suriname]] and northern [[Brazil]] (Amapá to south-eastern Pará) | :*Southern [[Suriname]] and northern [[Brazil]] (Amapá to south-eastern Pará) | ||
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*''M. s. modulator'': | *''M. s. modulator'': | ||
:*South-eastern [[Bolivia]] to southern [[Brazil]], [[Uruguay]], [[Paraguay]] and northern [[Argentina]] | :*South-eastern [[Bolivia]] to southern [[Brazil]], [[Uruguay]], [[Paraguay]] and northern [[Argentina]] | ||
| + | |||
==Habitat== | ==Habitat== | ||
Mainly found in open and semi-open areas. | Mainly found in open and semi-open areas. | ||
Revision as of 02:29, 29 June 2014
- Mimus saturninus
Identification
This mockingbird has pale overall colour, with brown wings and tail. A brown stripe crosses its eyes as well. The bird has a chalk (clearer) eyebrow and the white tip on the end of its tail is easily noticed when in flight. Colour variations can happen due to local soils.
Similar Species
The Chalk-browed Mockingbird can easily be mistaken for its congener, the Tropical Mockingbird (Mimus gilvus). In the limited area of overlap (only in coastal Brazil), the Chalk-browed Mockingbird can be separated from the Tropical by its browner (less grey) plumage and its stronger post-ocular spot/streak (reduced in the Tropical).
Distribution
It is widespread and often common in eastern and south-central South America: found in north-east Brazil, Bolivia, Paraguay, Uruguay and northern Argentina.
Taxonomy
Subspecies
This is a polytypic species consisting of four subspecies[1]:
- M. s. saturninus:
- M. s. arenaceus:
- North-eastern Brazil (Paraíba, Alagoas and Bahia)
- M. s. frater:
- M. s. modulator:
Habitat
Mainly found in open and semi-open areas.
Behaviour
This bird is commonly found in flocks of up to 13 individuals. While walking on the ground or perched in branches, it often opens and closes its wings partially and rapidly, while singing. This territorial display is often done by the entire group.
Breeding
It's nest is parasitised by Shiny Cowbird.
Diet
Its diet consist basically of fruits and invertebrates, especially insects. Since the seeds are not digested, this mockingbird may help in the dispersal of some plants, e.g. orange and avocado.
Vocalisation
It is famous for its huge repertoire of songs and calls, including many imitations of other birds.
References
- Clements, JF. 2011. The Clements Checklist of Birds of the World. 6th ed., with updates to August 2011. Ithaca: Cornell Univ. Press. ISBN 978-0801445019. Spreadsheet available at http://www.birds.cornell.edu/clementschecklist/downloadable-clements-checklist
- BF Member observations
Recommended Citation
- BirdForum Opus contributors. (2024) Chalk-browed Mockingbird. In: BirdForum, the forum for wild birds and birding. Retrieved 28 December 2024 from https://www.birdforum.net/opus/Chalk-browed_Mockingbird
External Links
