The Altamira yellowthroat is a New World warbler. It is a resident breeding bird endemic to the Gulf slope of north-eastern Mexico.
Region
Northeastern Mexico (Gulf Coast)
Typical Environment
Found in the lowland Gulf coastal plain, it inhabits freshwater and brackish marshes with dense stands of cattails and bulrushes, as well as grassy edges of lagoons and slow-moving streams. It favors emergent vegetation with standing water and scattered shrubs. The range is highly localized around coastal Tamaulipas, including the Altamira area, with populations in small, fragmented wetlands. It occurs most often where water levels persist year-round and reedbeds are tall and continuous.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 200 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Altamira yellowthroat is a marsh-dwelling New World warbler restricted to the Gulf slope of northeastern Mexico. Males have a striking black facial mask that contrasts with bright yellow underparts, while females are duller and lack the mask. It is threatened mainly by drainage and alteration of coastal wetlands, leading to fragmented populations.
Temperament
secretive and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low over vegetation
Social Behavior
Typically seen in pairs during the breeding season, maintaining small territories within marsh vegetation. Nests are cup-shaped and placed low in cattails, sedges, or dense grasses. Both parents attend the young, and adults often skulk within cover, occasionally singing from exposed reed tops.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a bright, repetitive series of chattering phrases reminiscent of other yellowthroats but with a distinctive, ringing quality. Calls include sharp chips and scolding notes given from cover.
