The Tacarcuna warbler is a species of bird in the family Parulidae. Prior to 2012 it considered conspecific with the three-striped warbler, and the black-eared warbler.
Region
Darién Gap (eastern Panama and northwest Colombia)
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid montane forests of the Serranía del Darién and adjacent ranges on both sides of the Panama–Colombia border. It keeps to shaded understory with dense tangles, viney thickets, and Chusquea bamboo. Often close to ravines and along small streams where mossy ground and leaf-litter are abundant. It is typically local but can be fairly common where suitable habitat persists.
Altitude Range
900–2000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This montane warbler was split in 2012 from the three-striped warbler complex, along with the black-eared warbler. It is a local specialty of the Darién Gap region on the Panama–Colombia border, where it favors dense understory and bamboo thickets. It forages low, often near streams, and frequently joins mixed-species flocks. Its sharp chips betray an otherwise secretive bird.
Temperament
secretive and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, darting flights
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups, and often joins mixed-species flocks in the understory. Nests are presumed to be cup-shaped and placed low, similar to close relatives, with both parents attending young. Territorial singing males perch low to mid-level in dense cover.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a thin, sweet series of high-pitched notes that may accelerate slightly, reminiscent of other Basileuterus warblers but softer. Calls include sharp chip and tseep notes given from cover, especially while foraging.
