The hooded yellowthroat is a species of bird in the family Parulidae. It is endemic to the highlands of Mexico north of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. It is resident in dense semiarid to humid montane shrubland or chaparral.
Region
Central Mexican Highlands
Typical Environment
Occurs in the highlands of Mexico north of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, where it inhabits dense semiarid to humid montane shrubland and chaparral. It frequents scrubby hillsides, secondary growth, hedgerows, and brushy edges near pine-oak and cloud-forest mosaics. It also uses riparian thickets and overgrown clearings. The species typically remains close to the ground within thick cover.
Altitude Range
1200–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The hooded yellowthroat is a skulking New World warbler that stays low in dense brush, making it easier to hear than to see. Males show a distinctive dark hood that helps separate them from the Common Yellowthroat. It is a year‑round resident of Mexico’s central highlands and favors thick, tangled vegetation. Its clear, ringing song carries surprisingly far through montane shrublands and chaparral.
Temperament
secretive and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs during the breeding season, keeping low in dense cover. Likely monogamous with a cup nest placed near the ground in thick vegetation. Outside of breeding, small loose groups or family parties may form while foraging.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A clear, ringing series of whistles and chips, often delivered from a concealed perch in brush. Calls include sharp tchks and soft clucks given while moving through cover.
Plumage
Males show a sleek, dark hood over the head with bright yellow underparts and olive upperparts; females are olive-brown above with yellowish underparts and lack the hood. Both sexes have relatively plain wings and a clean yellow throat.
Diet
Primarily consumes small insects and other arthropods such as beetles, caterpillars, spiders, and flies. Gleans prey from leaves and stems and occasionally makes short sallies to snatch flying insects. May take small berries opportunistically when insect availability is low.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in dense shrubs, brambles, and brushy edges, often within a meter or two of the ground. Also uses riparian thickets and overgrown clearings where insect activity is high.
