Crested Becard
NameCrested Becard
Common NameCrested Becard
Scientific NamePachyramphus validus
FamilyTityridae
Wingspan (cm)22
Length (cm)15.5
Weight (g)24
Plumage DetailsMales have a glossy black crown, nape, and upperparts, with white underparts and grey flanks. Females, as pictured, have a prominent black cap, rufous-brown upperparts, cinnamon-buff underparts, and a rufous tail. Both sexes have a relatively stout, slightly hooked bill.
Vocalization / CallTheir vocalizations typically consist of a series of clear, whistled notes, often described as 'swee-swee-swee' or 'peee-peee-peee', sometimes with a trilled quality.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in South America, ranging from Colombia and Venezuela, south through the Andes to Argentina, and east into southeastern Brazil and Paraguay.
Identifying FeaturesBlack cap (especially prominent in females), Rufous-brown upperparts and cinnamon underparts (females), Stocky build with a relatively large head, Upright perching posture, Short, slightly hooked bill
Description
The Crested Becard is a medium-sized passerine with a relatively large head and short tail. Males are primarily black and white, while females exhibit rufous and brown plumage with a distinct black cap. They are typically found perching upright in the canopy of various forest types.
