The green-backed becard is a species of bird in the family Tityridae, the tityras, becards, and allies. It is found in Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Guyana, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Venezuela.
Region
South America
Typical Environment
Occurs widely from Venezuela and the Guianas south through much of Brazil and east Bolivia into Paraguay, Uruguay, and northern Argentina. It inhabits tropical and subtropical lowland forests, forest edges, and semi-open woodlands. Frequently uses riparian corridors and secondary growth where tall trees remain. Most activity is in the mid-story to canopy, and it tends to avoid treeless habitats.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The green-backed becard is a member of the Tityridae, a Neotropical family that includes tityras and allies, and is typically seen high in the canopy. It often travels in pairs and may join mixed-species flocks. The species builds a distinctive hanging, globular nest made of plant fibers with a side entrance. Its heavy, slightly hooked bill is adapted for gleaning insects and taking small fruits.
Temperament
typically in pairs; unobtrusive and calm
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief sallies from perches
Social Behavior
Usually found singly or in pairs, often high in the canopy, and occasionally joins mixed-species flocks. Pairs maintain small territories during breeding. The nest is a hanging, globular structure suspended from branches. Both parents participate in incubation and feeding of the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song consists of soft, whistled phrases and brief buzzy notes delivered from a concealed canopy perch. Calls include sharp chips and thin whistles, repeated at intervals.
Plumage
Olive-green upperparts with paler underparts and a clean, lightly washed throat and belly; wings show faint pale wingbars. Head often slightly grayer or duskier than the back, with a sturdy, slightly hooked bill. Plumage is neat and smooth, suited to canopy life.
Diet
Takes a variety of insects and other small arthropods gleaned from foliage and twigs. Also consumes small fruits and berries, particularly when insect prey is less abundant. Occasionally makes short sallies to snatch flying insects. The sturdy bill helps crush prey and handle mixed food items.
Preferred Environment
Forages primarily in the mid-story and canopy of forests, edges, and gallery woodlands. Frequently uses vine tangles and outer foliage, and may exploit fruiting trees along forest margins.
