The grey-capped hemispingus is a species of bird in the family Thraupidae that is endemic to Venezuela.
Region
Venezuelan Andes
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid montane forests, especially cloud forests with dense understory and patches of Chusquea bamboo. It favors forest edges, gaps, and secondary growth adjacent to mature forest, where insect prey is abundant. Birds move actively through the midstory and lower canopy, often accompanying mixed-species flocks. It is largely absent from heavily degraded or dry habitats but can use regenerating forest if structure is suitable.
Altitude Range
1500–3200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This tanager is restricted to the Venezuelan Andes, where it is a frequent member of mixed-species flocks in cloud forest. It often works through bamboo and mossy understory, gleaning small arthropods. Formerly placed in the genus Hemispingus, it is now commonly treated in Kleinothraupis. Its specialized montane habitat makes it sensitive to deforestation at mid to high elevations.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually encountered in pairs or small family groups and frequently joins mixed-species foraging flocks. Nests are likely cup-shaped and placed in dense vegetation; both parents participate in care. Territoriality is modest, with more emphasis on following food resources within suitable forest strata.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a light, twittering series of thin notes and short trills delivered from within foliage. Calls are high, sharp chips used to stay in contact with flock mates.
Plumage
Olive upperparts with a contrasting slaty-gray crown and dusky mask; underparts yellow with an olive wash on the flanks. Wings and tail are olive-brown with slightly darker flight feathers. Plumage is soft and clean-toned, with subtle contrast rather than bold patterning.
Diet
Primarily gleans small insects, spiders, and other arthropods from leaves and twigs. It also takes small fruits and berries, especially when insect activity is low. Foraging is active and methodical, often in concert with other flocking species, which helps locate prey flushed by companions.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in the midstory and lower canopy of humid montane forest, along edges, gaps, and bamboo thickets. It also uses secondary growth adjacent to intact forest where understory structure is dense.
