Masked tityra facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Masked tityra |
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Tityra
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| Species: |
semifasciata
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The masked tityra (Tityra semifasciata) is a cool medium-sized bird. It's known for its unique look and where it lives. This bird is a type of passerine, which means it's part of a large group often called "songbirds."
Scientists used to think the masked tityra belonged to other bird families, like the cotinga or tyrant flycatcher families. But new information shows it fits best in its own special family called Tityridae. This is where bird experts, like the South American Classification Committee, now place it.
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About the Masked Tityra
The masked tityra is a fascinating bird with distinct features. It was first described by a scientist named Johann Baptist von Spix in 1825. This means we've known about this bird for almost 200 years!
Where the Masked Tityra Lives
You can find the masked tityra in many places across the Americas. It lives in forests and woodlands. Its home stretches from Mexico in the north, all through Central America, and down into northwestern and central South America. You might even spot it as far south as Paraguay.
What the Masked Tityra Looks Like
The masked tityra is about 20 centimeters (8 inches) long. It has striking black and whitish feathers. One of its most noticeable features is a bright red ring around its eyes. The base of its beak is also red.
Differences Between Males and Females
- Males: Male masked tityras have a completely black head.
- Females: Female masked tityras have a head that is brownish or grayish.
How to Tell It Apart
The male masked tityra looks a bit like another bird called the black-tailed tityra. But there are ways to tell them apart! The masked tityra has a smaller black "mask" on its face. This mask does not go all the way to the back of its neck (the nape). Also, the masked tityra has a white tip on its tail.
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T. s. personata
This male was seen in Copan, Honduras. -
T. s. costaricensis
This bird was photographed in Turrialba, Costa Rica.
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