The golden-fronted whitestart or the golden-fronted redstart, is a species of bird in the family Parulidae. It is found in forest, woodland and scrub in the Andes of Colombia and far western Venezuela.
Region
Northern Andes
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid montane and cloud forests, forest edges, and dense secondary growth of the Andes of Colombia and into far western Venezuela (e.g., Táchira region). It favors mossy understory, shrubby clearings, and riparian thickets where it can sally for insects. Frequently found along forest borders and along trails where light gaps increase insect activity. Pairs and family groups are common, and it regularly joins mixed-species flocks.
Altitude Range
1500–3500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The golden-fronted whitestart is a lively New World warbler that fans its white-edged tail to flush insects from foliage. It often joins mixed-species flocks in montane forests and is notably confiding around human trails. Subspecies vary in head patterning, but all show a distinctive golden-yellow forecrown.
Yellow-fronted Redstart ssp. Myioborus ornatus ornatus
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups, frequently accompanying mixed-species flocks through the midstory and understory. Territorial during breeding, with cup nests placed on banks, among roots, or low vegetation. Pairs are monogamous and both adults attend the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Delivers a fast, bright series of thin, high trills and twitters. Contact calls are sharp chips and tsi notes, often given while actively foraging and tail-fanning.
Plumage
Bright yellow underparts with gray to slate upperparts, contrasting white outer tail feathers prominently fanned in foraging. Forecrown shows a golden to orange-yellow patch; head often darker, forming a hooded look in some populations. Clean, crisp contrasts give a sharp, tidy appearance.
Diet
Primarily hunts small insects and other arthropods, including flies, beetles, caterpillars, and spiders. Forages by sallying from low perches, gleaning from leaves, and flushing prey with conspicuous tail-fanning. May occasionally take small berries, especially when insect activity is low.
Preferred Environment
Feeds along forest edges, gaps, and shrubby clearings where insects are abundant. Often uses midstory tangles and streamside vegetation to launch short sallies.
