The crested becard, also known as the plain becard, is a species of bird in the family Tityridae. It has traditionally been placed in Cotingidae or Tyrannidae, but evidence strongly suggest it is better placed in Tityridae, where it is now placed by the South American Classification Committee.
Region
Eastern and southern South America
Typical Environment
Found primarily in eastern and southeastern Brazil with range extending into Paraguay and northeastern Argentina, and locally in adjacent areas. Occupies humid and semi-humid forests, forest edges, gallery forests, and well-wooded second growth. Frequently uses riparian corridors and wooded savannas, and can persist in fragmented landscapes where tall trees remain. It adapts to lightly disturbed habitats, including plantations and larger parks near forest.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1600 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The crested becard, also known as the plain becard, belongs to the Tityridae, a family that includes tityras and becards. It is a discreet foliage-gleaner that often forages quietly in forest edges and secondary growth. Pairs build a large, domed, hanging nest with a side entrance, suspended from branches. Its soft, whistled song can be easily overlooked amid louder forest birds.
Temperament
solitary and unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief sallies
Social Behavior
Typically seen alone or in pairs, sometimes joining mixed-species flocks along forest edges. Pairs maintain small territories during breeding. The species constructs a large, domed, hanging nest with a side entrance suspended from drooping branches. Both sexes participate in nest-building and care of young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft series of clear, thin whistles, often given from mid-canopy perches. Calls include quiet chips and brief, plaintive notes that may be repeated in short sequences.
Plumage
Generally plain, with smooth, slightly crested crown and uniform upperparts; underparts paler and somewhat buffy. Subtle, faint wingbars may be present, and feathering appears sleek without strong patterning.
Diet
Eats a mix of arthropods such as beetles, caterpillars, and spiders, gleaned from foliage and small branches. Also takes small fruits and berries, especially when insects are less abundant. Occasionally sallies to catch flying insects and may probe clusters of leaves for hidden prey.
Preferred Environment
Forages in mid to upper canopy along forest edges, riparian woodland, and tall second growth. Often uses semi-open treefall gaps and the outer canopy of mature trees where fruiting resources are available.
