The Gray-collared Becard is normally a bird of arid temperate and tropical zones of Mexico and Guatemala. It was unknown in the United States until a single female was confirmed in southeastern Arizona in 2009. Males sport a black cap and a black back, interrupted by a pale gray nape that merges with grey underparts. Females share similar black and white wing patterns but have a rich brownish back and crown, with a dark eye-stripe.
Habitat
Found in a variety of semi-open forest habitats in arid temperate zones as well as tropical zones. Potential habitats include pine-oak woodlands, moist lowland forest, moist montane forest, and tropical dry woodlands.
Diet
The Gray-collared Becard feeds primarily on insects and other arthropods, including beetles, caterpillars, ants, and spiders. It also eats small fruits and berries, especially when they are seasonally abundant.
Behavior
The Gray-collared Becard is generally quiet and inconspicuous, spending much of its time in the middle and upper levels of forest canopies. It usually forages alone or in pairs, methodically searching foliage for insects and fruit, and occasionally joins mixed-species feeding flocks. During the breeding season, pairs defend territories around their nesting sites but otherwise remain relatively unobtrusive.
Nesting
The Gray-collared Becard builds a large, enclosed, hanging nest with a side entrance, woven from grasses, plant fibers, moss, and other soft materials. The nest is typically suspended from the outer branches of a tree, often high above the ground. The female usually lays 2–4 eggs, and both parents participate in incubation and feeding the young.
Song
The Gray-collared Becard gives a series of clear, whistled notes and soft, musical phrases, often repeated at regular intervals....hooo-hooo-hooo-hooo. Males sing from exposed perches during the breeding season to defend territories and attract mates. The species also produces a variety of short contact calls and quiet chatter while foraging in the forest canopy.
Migration
The Gray-collared Becard is primarily a resident species throughout its range from Mexico to Central America. Most individuals remain in the same general area year-round, although some populations may make short local or elevational movements in response to seasonal food availability. It is not considered a long-distance migratory species.
Interactive eBird map
Click here to access an interactive eBird map of Gray-collared Becard sightings
Similar Species
Not likely to be confused with another species if seen well.
Conservation Status
The Gray-collared Becard is classified as Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature because of its broad range and apparently stable population. It remains fairly common in suitable forest habitats from Mexico through Central America. Although localized deforestation may affect some populations, the species is not currently considered globally threatened.
Further Information
- eBird - Gray-collared Becard
- Audubon Field Guide - Gray-collared Becard
- Cornell Lab of Ornithology - All About Birds: Gray-collared Becard
Photo Information
Photo by Jorge Montejo - Photo licensed under Creative Commons Attribution NonCommercial NoDerivs 2.0 Generic license
