The slate-colored solitaire is a species of bird in the family Turdidae. It is found in Belize, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, and Nicaragua. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist montane forests.
Region
Mesoamerican Highlands
Typical Environment
Occurs from southern Mexico (including Chiapas) through Belize, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, and into northern Nicaragua. It favors subtropical and tropical moist montane and cloud forests, often in ravines, along forest edges, and in mature secondary growth. Birds commonly use mid- to upper canopy perches with dense cover nearby. It tolerates some habitat edges but relies on intact high-elevation forest for breeding.
Altitude Range
900–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Renowned for an ethereal, flute-like song that carries across cloud forests, the slate-colored solitaire is often heard before it is seen. It typically keeps to shaded mid- to upper-story perches and may make short sallies for insects. By swallowing small fruits whole, it helps disperse seeds and maintain montane forest diversity.
Temperament
shy and retiring
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between perches
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs; defends well-defined singing territories during the breeding season. Builds a cup-shaped nest on banks, ledges, or within dense vegetation. Pairs are typically monogamous, and adults may reuse favored territories across years.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A rich, fluty, and far-carrying series of clear, bell-like phrases delivered from exposed perches, especially at dawn and dusk. Phrases are varied and melodious, often repeated in cascading sequences.
Plumage
Uniform slate-gray plumage with a smooth, satiny appearance; slightly paler underparts and subtle pale edging on wings and tail.
Diet
Takes a mix of small fruits and berries along with insects and other arthropods. Gleans prey from foliage and branches and occasionally sallies to catch flying insects. Seasonal fruit availability strongly influences its foraging choices, and it may follow fruiting trees.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the mid- to upper canopy of cloud forests, along shaded edges, and in mature secondary growth. Frequently visits fruiting shrubs and small trees along ravines and forest gaps.
