Verdin facts for kids
The Verdin (Auriparus flaviceps) is a small bird that lives in the deserts of North America. It is the only species in its group, called a genus (Auriparus). It is also the only bird from its family found in the New World, which means North and South America.
What Does a Verdin Look Like?
Verdins are very small birds. They are about 4.5 inches (11.4 cm) long. This makes them one of the smallest passerine birds in North America. Passerine birds are also known as perching birds.
Most of a Verdin's body is gray. Adult Verdins have a bright yellow head. They also have a rusty-colored patch on their "shoulder" area. This patch is made of feathers called lesser coverts. Unlike some other small birds like tits, the Verdin has a sharp, pointed beak.
What Do Verdins Eat?
Verdins are insectivores, which means they mostly eat insects. They are always looking for food among the desert trees and bushes. They usually live alone. However, they will pair up when it's time to build a nest and raise their young.
Verdins are known to be friendly birds. Sometimes, they even try to get sweet, dried sugar water from hummingbird feeders.
Where Do Verdins Live?
Verdins have always lived in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. Their home range stretches from southeastern California all the way to Texas. They also live throughout the Baja California area and into central Mexico. Their habitat stops north of the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt.
