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Overview
Goldman's warbler

Goldman's warbler

Wikipedia

Goldman's warbler is a songbird species in the New World warbler family (Parulidae). It is found in Mexico and Guatemala.

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Distribution

Region

Mesoamerican Highlands (Guatemala and Chiapas, Mexico)

Typical Environment

Occurs mainly in montane pine, pine–oak, and fir forests, as well as forest edges and semi-open highland habitats. It favors mature stands with a mix of conifers and broadleaf trees, but also uses second-growth and clearings with scattered trees. In the nonbreeding season it remains in similar habitats at slightly lower elevations. It typically keeps to mid- to upper-canopy levels while foraging.

Altitude Range

1800–3600 m

Climate Zone

Highland

Characteristics

Size12–14 cm
Wing Span19–23 cm
Male Weight0.012 kg
Female Weight0.011 kg
Life Expectancy6 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

Often treated as part of the Yellow-rumped Warbler complex, Goldman's warbler is sometimes recognized as a distinct species restricted to the highlands of southern Mexico and Guatemala. Males show a darker mask and richer coloration than nearby Audubon's warblers, but retain the classic yellow rump. It forages actively in pine–oak canopies and frequently joins mixed-species flocks. Its limited range makes intact montane forest especially important for its persistence.

Behaviour

Temperament

social and active

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats with agile, twisting foraging flights

Social Behavior

Frequently joins mixed-species flocks of highland songbirds while foraging. Pairs form in the breeding season, with cup nests placed in conifers or dense shrubs. Both sexes defend territories near the nest, and adults engage in active insect-gleaning to provision young.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

A sweet, buzzy warble of short phrases that rise and fall, reminiscent of Audubon's Yellow-rumped Warbler but slightly thinner and drier in tone. Calls include a high, sharp tsiip used in contact and alarm.

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