The black catbird is a songbird species in the monotypic genus Melanoptila, part of the family Mimidae. At 19–20.5 cm (7.5–8.1 in) in length and 31.6–42 g (1.11–1.48 oz) in mass, it is the smallest of the mimids. Sexes appear similar, with glossy black plumage, black legs and bill, and dark brownish eyes. The species is endemic to the Yucatán Peninsula, and is found as far south as Campeche, northern Guatemala and northern Belize. Although there are historical records from Honduras and the US state of Texas, the species is not now known to occur in either location. It is found at low elevations in semi-arid to humid habitats ranging from shrubland and abandoned farmland to woodland with thick understory, and is primarily sedentary.
Region
Yucatán Peninsula
Typical Environment
Occurs across the Yucatán Peninsula from Quintana Roo and Yucatán to Campeche, extending into northern Belize and northern Guatemala. It inhabits semi-arid to humid lowland environments with dense understory, including coastal scrub, secondary woodland, and overgrown clearings. The species is frequent in thickets, forest edges, and abandoned farmland where shrubs and vine tangles are abundant. It generally avoids open areas and mature forest with sparse understory. Most records are from near sea level in flat limestone country.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 250 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The black catbird is the smallest member of the mimid family and the only species in its genus. Its name comes from its cat-like mewing calls, though it also delivers rich, varied songs. It is a shy, understory specialist that skulks in dense thickets. The species is largely sedentary and tightly tied to lowland scrub and second-growth habitats of the Yucatán Peninsula.
The adult's plumage shows a purplish or greenish sheen.
The black catbird favors areas with dense thickets, scrub or understory.
Temperament
secretive and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats through dense cover
Social Behavior
Usually found singly or in pairs, especially during the breeding season. Likely monogamous, nesting low in dense shrubs or tangles in a cup nest. Pairs maintain small territories and often remain in the same patch year-round.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Produces emphatic cat-like mews alongside a varied series of whistles, squeaks, and chattering notes. Song can be rich and fluid but is often given from within cover, making the bird heard more often than seen.
