Birds
Rose-throated Becard
Pachyramphus aglaiae
A small patch of rose-pink feathers catches the eye on the throat of a male rose-throated becard, a modest splash of colour against otherwise grey-and-pink plumage found from the southwestern United States through Central American forest.
Overview
The rose-throated becard, Pachyramphus aglaiae, is a Least Concern bird found across forest habitat from the southwestern United States through Mexico and much of Central America. Its distinctive rose-pink throat patch in males, sharp contrast with duller females, and large hanging nest construction make it a notable member of the becard family across its range.
A subtle splash of colour
Compared to some of its more boldly marked relatives, the rose-throated becard keeps most of its colour understated, reserving the small rose-pink throat patch as the single standout feature against otherwise muted grey-and-pink male plumage.
Status
Least Concern, remaining widespread across suitable forest habitat throughout its range from the southwestern United States to Central America.
Rose-throated Becard: common questions
Why is it called the rose-throated becard?
Males show a small patch of rose-pink feathers on the throat, a feature that gives the species its common name.
Do male and female rose-throated becards look different?
Yes, females show duller, more uniformly brownish plumage, quite different from the grey-and-pink pattern and rose throat patch found in males.
What kind of nest does the rose-throated becard build?
It constructs a large, bulky, rounded nest suspended from a tree branch, a style shared with related becard species.
Where is the rose-throated becard found?
It ranges from the southwestern United States south through Mexico and much of Central America.