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Overview
Dusky-capped greenlet

Dusky-capped greenlet

Wikipedia

The dusky-capped greenlet is a species of bird in the family Vireonidae. It is found in Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests.

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Distribution

Region

Amazon Basin

Typical Environment

This species inhabits humid lowland forests across the western and central Amazon of Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and southern Venezuela. It favors terra firme and seasonally flooded várzea forests, as well as forest edges and tall secondary growth. It typically forages from the lower to mid-canopy, moving methodically through foliage. The greenlet often accompanies mixed-species flocks along forest trails and river margins where insect prey is abundant.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 900 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size11–12 cm
Wing Span18–20 cm
Male Weight0.01 kg
Female Weight0.011 kg
Life Expectancy6 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

A small Amazonian vireo, the dusky-capped greenlet is often detected by its high, lisping calls as it forages in the midstory. It commonly joins mixed-species flocks, gleaning insects from foliage. Its subtle plumage makes it easy to overlook despite being fairly widespread.

Gallery

Bird photo
Bird photo
Bird photo

Behaviour

Temperament

active and vigilant

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats with brief, direct flights between perches

Social Behavior

Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups, and regularly joins mixed-species flocks. Builds a suspended cup nest hanging from a forked twig, typically in midstory vegetation. Both parents participate in incubation and feeding of the young.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

A series of thin, high-pitched lisping notes and short whistles delivered at a steady pace. Calls include sharp chips and soft scolds given while foraging within foliage.

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