The spectacled whitestart or spectacled redstart is a species of bird in the family Parulidae. It is found in humid Andean forests, woodland and scrub from southern Colombia to Bolivia
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs from southern Colombia through Ecuador and Peru to western Bolivia in humid montane forest, elfin forest, and forest edge. Most common in mossy cloud forests with dense understory and along streamside thickets. Frequently uses second growth and roadside scrub adjacent to intact forest. Regularly joins mixed-species foraging flocks from the understory to mid-canopy.
Altitude Range
2000–3800 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also known as the spectacled redstart, this lively Andean warbler constantly fans and flashes its white-edged tail to flush insects from foliage. It often joins mixed-species flocks in cloud forests and is a reliable indicator of humid montane habitats. Pairs defend small territories during breeding but range more widely while foraging.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often forages in pairs or small family groups and regularly participates in mixed-species flocks. Nests are cup-shaped and placed low in banks or dense vegetation; both parents attend the young. Territorial during breeding but ranges more broadly while feeding.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A bright, thin, twittering series of high notes and short trills, often delivered from mid-level perches. Calls include sharp, sibilant chips used to maintain contact while foraging.
Plumage
Compact warbler with a dark head, neat white eye-arcs forming a 'spectacled' look, slate-grey upperparts, and bright yellow underparts. The tail is frequently fanned, showing bold white outer rectrices that contrast with the darker center. Plumage is crisp and clean-lined, with minimal streaking.
Diet
Feeds primarily on small insects and other arthropods such as beetles, flies, caterpillars, and spiders. Frequently flush-chases prey by fanning the tail and making quick sallies. Occasionally gleans from leaves and branches and may take small berries opportunistically.
Preferred Environment
Forages along forest edges, light gaps, streamside vegetation, and in the understory to midstory of humid cloud forests. Often follows mixed flocks through structurally diverse, moss-laden habitats.
