Black-eared Hemispingus
NameBlack-eared Hemispingus
Common NameBlack-eared Hemispingus
Scientific NameSphenopsis melanotis
FamilyThraupidae
Wingspan (cm)20
Length (cm)13.5
Weight (g)15
Plumage DetailsAdults have a prominent black mask covering the lores and ear-coverts, contrasting with a dark grey or olive-grey crown and nape. The upperparts are olive-grey, while the throat and underparts are a rich rufous-cinnamon, fading to a duller olive-brown on the flanks and undertail coverts. The bill is dark.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a thin, high-pitched 'tsee' or 'tsit' note, often given in a rapid, chattering series or a short, high-pitched trill.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the Andes Mountains of South America, from northern Colombia south through Ecuador and Peru, extending into western Bolivia.
Identifying Featuresblack ear patch, dark grey cap, rufous-cinnamon underparts, olive-grey back, small size
Description
This small tanager is characterized by its distinctive black ear patch contrasting with a dark cap and rufous-cinnamon underparts. It typically forages actively in the understory and mid-story of humid montane forests, often as part of mixed-species flocks, searching for insects.
