Lesser Antillean saltator

The Lesser Antillean saltator is a species of songbird in the tanager family Thraupidae that is found in Dominica, Martinique, Saint Kitts and Nevis, and Saint Lucia. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical dry forests and heavily degraded former forest.

Distribution

Region

Lesser Antilles

Typical Environment

Occurs on Dominica, Martinique, Saint Kitts and Nevis, and Saint Lucia. It favors subtropical and tropical dry forests, forest edges, and scrubby thickets. The species readily uses secondary habitats, plantations, and gardens, especially where fruiting trees and dense hedges are present. It tolerates heavily degraded former forest and coastal scrub, often remaining close to cover.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 1000 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size17–19 cm

Wing Span25–28 cm

Male Weight0.032 kg

Female Weight0.029 kg

Life Expectancy7 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 2/5

Useful to know

This island saltator is a robust-billed tanager specialized for cracking hard seeds yet also takes fruits and insects. It is a resident of the Lesser Antilles and shows subtle variation in song and plumage among islands. Saltators were traditionally placed with cardinals but are now classified within the tanager family Thraupidae based on genetics.

Gallery

Behaviour

Temperament

shy and skulking

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats between cover

Social Behavior

Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups. Pairs maintain territories in the breeding season and nest in dense shrubs or low trees, building a neat cup. Both parents typically attend the young and may raise multiple broods if conditions allow.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Song is a rich, whistled series of clear, melodious phrases delivered from concealed perches. Calls include sharp metallic chips and softer contact notes, often given while foraging in thickets.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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