The Paria whitestart, also known as the Paria redstart, yellow-faced whitestart or yellow-faced redstart, is a passerine bird of the New World warbler family, Parulidae. It is endemic to the Paria Peninsula in Venezuela, where it occurs primarily on the edges and in clearings of humid cloud forests. It is threatened by on-going habitat loss within its tiny range, which is near-entirely contained within the Península de Paria National Park.
Region
Northeastern Venezuela
Typical Environment
Occurs almost entirely on the Paria Peninsula, where it favors edges and clearings of humid cloud forest and adjacent secondary growth. It forages along forest borders, landslides, and along streams where sunlight penetrates the canopy. Dense epiphyte-laden trees and shrubby tangles provide cover and foraging substrates. Although tied to forest, it tolerates small openings and lightly disturbed habitats if sufficient understory remains.
Altitude Range
400–1300 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This striking warbler constantly fans and flashes its white-edged tail to flush hidden insects from foliage, a hallmark behavior of whitestarts. It is restricted to the humid montane forests of the Paria Peninsula in Venezuela, much of which lies within Península de Paria National Park. Habitat loss and degradation within its tiny range pose ongoing threats, making careful protection of remaining cloud forest crucial.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically seen in pairs or small family groups, sometimes joining mixed-species flocks along forest edges. Territorial during the breeding season, with pairs maintaining small territories. Nests are likely cup-shaped and placed low in dense vegetation, as in related whitestarts.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A bright, fast series of high-pitched chips and trills delivered from exposed perches along forest edges. Calls include sharp chip notes used to keep contact while foraging and during tail-fanning displays.
