Black-and-yellow phainoptila

Appearance

The black-and-yellow phainoptila is a small, rotund bird with distinctive yellow flanks. Males have a black back, head and tail, yellow flanks and rump, olive breasts and grey bellies. Females have a black cap, olive breast, rump, wings and tail, yellow flanks, and grey throat, nape, and belly. Young are similar to adult female, but duller and with no grey on nape and dusky streaking on breast.

Habitat

Black-and-yellow phainoptilas are found from Costa Rica to western Panama, in mountains from 1800 m to timberline, although they may wander lower after breeding season. Found in highland forests and adjacent second growth and gardens.

Defense

Nest is a compact, bulky, cup of green moss, thin stems and fern fronds. Found 5–13 ft. up in a dense shrup or sapling. Lays 2 spotted, greyish-white eggs. Nesting occurs from April to May.