The painted redstart or painted whitestart is a species of New World warbler found in mountainous areas across inland Central America. They are among the largest warblers, reaching the length of 6 inches (150 mm), tail included. Adult birds have glossy black plumage, with white strips on the wing and a bright red belly. Female and male birds have similar appearance. Female painted redstarts have a rare feature of being as good singers as the males.
Region
Southwestern United States and Mesoamerican Highlands
Typical Environment
Found in montane canyons and pine–oak woodlands from southeastern Arizona and southwestern New Mexico through the highlands of Mexico south to Central America. Prefers shaded riparian ravines, oak–sycamore gallery forests, and mixed pine–oak slopes. Often forages along streams, waterfalls, and steep, rocky canyon walls. In the northern range it may shift to slightly lower elevations in winter, while many populations in Mexico remain year-round.
Altitude Range
900–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Painted redstarts use an eye-catching tail-fanning and wing-flashing display to flush insects from foliage and streamside vegetation. Unusually for warblers, females sing as strongly and as often as males, especially during territory defense. They are often bold and responsive to pishing, approaching observers closely along shaded canyon streams.
Temperament
active and bold
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with frequent sallying
Social Behavior
Typically found singly or in territorial pairs during the breeding season, often along shaded canyon streams. Both sexes sing and participate in territory defense; nests are usually placed on banks or steep slopes near water. Parents cooperatively feed nestlings and fledglings. Outside breeding, individuals may join mixed-species flocks while foraging.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
A clear, ringing series of sweet, whistled phrases delivered with vigor; phrases often accelerate and vary. Calls include sharp chips used during foraging and territorial encounters; females sing as fully as males.
