The Jamaican euphonia is a species of bird in the family Fringillidae. Jamaican euphonias are small and have a varying appearance depending on their sex and age. They are the only species of Euphonia that reside in Jamaica and have received the nickname of "Short-Mouth Bluequit" from Jamaican locals. These birds do not migrate anywhere and can be found throughout the island in wooded areas, shrublands, gardens, orchards, and hilly lowlands.
Region
Caribbean
Typical Environment
Occurs throughout much of Jamaica wherever there are trees bearing small fruits. It favors forest edges, secondary woodland, scrubby hillsides, and cultivated areas with fruiting trees such as orchards and large gardens. The species often keeps to the mid- to upper canopy but will descend to lower shrubs when fruit is abundant. It tolerates moderate habitat disturbance as long as food plants are present.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Endemic to Jamaica, the Jamaican euphonia is a small, fruit-loving finch that often forages quietly high in the canopy. Locals sometimes call it the “Short-Mouth Bluequit,” a nod to its stubby finch bill and the male’s bluish tones. It plays an important role in dispersing seeds of mistletoes and other small-fruited plants. Pairs are frequently seen in forest edges, orchards, and well-vegetated gardens.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically found in pairs or small family groups, sometimes joining mixed-species flocks at forest edges. Courtship involves soft song and close-following displays in the canopy. The nest is a small, domed structure with a side entrance, often tucked into vine tangles or dense foliage. Likely monogamous during the breeding season.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a sweet series of thin, tinkling whistles and buzzy notes delivered from a concealed perch high in the canopy. Calls are high, sibilant seeps and short chips used to keep contact while foraging.
