The grey-collared becard is a species of bird in the family Tityridae. Its genus, Pachyramphus, has traditionally been placed in Cotingidae or Tyrannidae, but evidence strongly suggests it is better placed in Tityridae.
Region
Mesoamerica
Typical Environment
Occurs from southern Mexico through Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and into western Panama. It favors humid and semi-humid montane forests, cloud forests, and mature second growth. Most activity is in the mid to upper canopy along forest edges, gaps, and riparian corridors. It tolerates some disturbance but remains tied to forested habitats near continuous cover.
Altitude Range
600–2500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Now placed in the family Tityridae, the grey-collared becard was formerly grouped with tyrant flycatchers or cotingas. It builds a deep, hanging pouch nest suspended from branches. Pairs often accompany mixed-species flocks in the forest canopy. Males and females have notably different plumages.
Temperament
quiet, pair-oriented, mildly territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief sallies
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or small family groups and often joins mixed-species foraging flocks. Builds a deep, pendulous nest suspended from branches, typically well concealed. Likely monogamous, with both parents participating in care of the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song consists of soft, whistled phrases and burry notes delivered from mid-canopy perches. Calls include low chips and short, buzzy contact notes used between mates.
Plumage
Male shows dark slate to blackish upperparts with a distinct pale gray collar across the nape and upper breast, contrasting with paler underparts; female is warm brown above with buffy underparts and a subtler grayish collar. Both sexes have a thick-based, slightly hooked bill and may show faint wing edging. Plumage is clean and smooth, adapted to canopy life.
Diet
Takes a variety of arthropods by gleaning from foliage and making short sallies to capture prey. Also consumes small fruits and berries, especially when insect availability is lower. Will hover briefly to pick items from leaves and twigs. Often forages methodically with a mate or within a mixed-species flock.
Preferred Environment
Feeds mainly in the mid to upper canopy along forest edges, gaps, and light-dappled interiors. Frequently follows mixed flocks through continuous forest and along riparian corridors. Uses secondary growth when tall trees or remnant canopy are present.
