The red warbler (Cardellina rubra) is a small passerine bird that measures 12.5-13.5 cm (4.9-5.3 in) in length and weighs between 7.6 to 8.7 g (0.27 to 0.31 oz). Its distinct bright-red color and hyperactive state make it unmistakable. Adult birds have a white or dark gray (depending on the subspecies) auricular patch on either side of their heads and slightly darker dusky red wings and tail edged in pinkish-red. The legs are a dull red-brown, and the bill is a pinkish-gray with a dark tip. The iris is dark brown to blackish. Plumage varies little between the sexes, although the female tends to be a little duller or more orange-tinged.
This species is endemic to Mexico, found from southern Chihuahua all the way down to southern Hidalgo. They prefer to live in humid and semi-humid pine, pine-oak, fir, and oak forests, located at high altitudes ranging from 2,000-3,500 m. Red-faced Warblers forage in trees with dense foliage, particularly in conifers, where they glean a variety of insects, especially caterpillars from the outer branches. This species also hover-gleans like a flycatcher to catch insects.
The Red-faced Warbler builds its cup-shaped nest in a hollow on the ground, often on a slope in the open or at the base of a woody plant. Sometimes the nest site has an overhang provided by a plant stem, log, or rock, which helps to conceal and protect the nest. The nest is built by the female using bark, leaves, or pine needles with a lining of grasses or animal hair. Only the female incubates the eggs for 16 days, but both parents feed the young when they hatch. Chicks become fledged after 10-11 days.
This species is regarded as of Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, having a large breeding range and a global population estimated at 50,000-500,000 individuals. However, the population is suspected to be in decline owing to ongoing habitat destruction.
If you want to watch and listen to this bird, you can check out the video below. It’s a rare and beautiful sight that any bird lover would appreciate.
