The Guaiquinima whitestart, also known as the Guaiquinima redstart, saffron-breasted whitestart or saffron-breasted redstart, is a species of bird in the family Parulidae. It is endemic to humid highland forests on Cerro Guaiquinima in south-eastern Venezuela. It is threatened by habitat loss.
Region
Guiana Shield (Venezuelan Guayana)
Typical Environment
Occurs only on the humid, forested slopes and summit woodlands of Cerro Guaiquinima. It inhabits mossy submontane to montane evergreen forest, forest edges, and riparian corridors. The species favors dense understory and midstory where it can glean and sally for prey. It often accompanies mixed-species flocks moving through shaded, humid ravines. The extremely localized distribution makes it sensitive to any habitat degradation on the tepui.
Altitude Range
800–1600 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This vividly colored warbler is confined to a single tepui massif, Cerro Guaiquinima, making it one of Venezuela’s most range-restricted birds. Like other whitestarts, it often fans and flashes its white-edged tail to startle insects into flight. It frequently joins mixed-species flocks in the forest understory and midstory. Habitat loss on and around the tepui poses the primary threat to its survival.
Temperament
active and alert
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with frequent tail-fanning
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or small family groups and commonly participates in mixed-species flocks. Nests are cup-shaped and placed low in dense vegetation or on banks. Territorial during breeding but generally tolerant of flock associates outside the nest area.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a quick, thin series of high-pitched trills and twitters delivered from shaded perches. Calls include sharp chips and zeet notes, often given while foraging and tail-fanning.
