His canary yellow vest and cap contrast sharply with his black mask, which transforms into an iridescent purple cape!
In the video, a stunning Thick-billed Euphonia steals the show with its vibrant appearance. The bird’s canary yellow vest and cap create a striking contrast against its black mask, which adds an air of mystery. But the real showstopper is the iridescent purple cape that magically unfolds from the bird’s back, adding a touch of enchantment to its already captivating appearance.
The Thick-billed Euphonia, scientifically known as Euphonia laniirostris, showcases dark blue plumage on its upper parts, complemented by yellow underparts. A burst of yellow extends from the forecrown to the rear of the crown, creating a splash of vibrant color. A black mask adorns the bird’s face, stretching from the base of its bill to the sides of its head. Depending on the lighting conditions, the dark blue plumage may appear black, adding an element of intrigue.
Female Thick-billed Euphonias, on the other hand, exhibit olive green upper parts and yellow bellies with a touch of olive on their breasts. As juvenile males mature, they acquire the distinctive dark head coloration before their back changes to its natural hue.
These captivating birds can be found in various countries, including Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Panama, Peru, and Venezuela. They prefer to inhabit shrubby areas and forest edges in lowlands to lower foothills.
Thick-billed Euphonias are omnivorous, relishing a diverse diet of fruits and insects. They have a particular fondness for mistletoe berries. During the breeding season, they construct spherical nests where the female lays 2 to 5 white eggs adorned with chestnut spots. The female then incubates the eggs for approximately 15 days.
Fortunately, the Thick-billed Euphonia is considered of Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating that its population is relatively stable and not currently at risk of extinction.
If you’re eager to witness the mesmerizing beauty of the Thick-billed Euphonia for yourself, you can enjoy watching the bird in the video below. Prepare to be enchanted by its vibrant colors and graceful presence.
