The bananaquit is a species of passerine bird in the tanager family Thraupidae. Before the development of molecular genetics in the 21st century, its relationship to other species was uncertain and it was either placed with the buntings and New World sparrows in the family Emberizidae, with New World warblers in the family Parulidae or its own monotypic family Coerebidae. This small, active nectarivore is found in warmer parts of the Americas and is generally common.
Region
Caribbean and northern South America
Typical Environment
Common throughout the Caribbean islands, Central America, and much of northern and eastern South America, with populations extending into gardens and towns. It frequents forest edges, secondary growth, mangroves, coastal scrub, and plantations. The species readily adapts to human-altered habitats and is a habitual visitor to nectar feeders. It is less common in dense, unbroken interior forest but thrives in shrubby, flowering habitats.
Altitude Range
0–2500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
A small, active nectar-feeder of the Neotropics, the bananaquit is famed for visiting garden sugar-water feeders and flowering shrubs. It often pierces the base of tubular flowers to sip nectar, a behavior known as nectar robbing. Island subspecies vary noticeably in throat color and brightness, and the species is generally common wherever blossoms are plentiful.
Juvenile bananaquits are duller than adults and may have yellow eyebrows and throat
Bananaquit in its nest. Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica
Eggs of Coereba flaveola MHNT
A bananaquit feeding on an orange in the Morne Diablotins National Park in Dominica
Temperament
active and inquisitive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often seen singly, in pairs, or in small loose groups around flowering plants. Builds a globular nest with a side entrance; old nests may be reused for roosting. Territoriality can be pronounced around rich nectar sources.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
High, thin, squeaky twitters and rapid chips delivered in short, lively bursts. Calls are sharp and frequent, especially while foraging among blossoms.
