Melanopareia torquata (Wied-Neuwied, 1831)

Species Naming & Body Length

The collared crescentchest (scientific name Melanopareia torquata) is 14.5 cm (5.7 in) long.

Specimen Weight

Two unsexed specimens of the subspecies M. t. rufescens weighed 16.5 g and 18.0 g (0.58 oz and 0.63 oz) respectively.

Nominate Subspecies Plumage

The nominate subspecies has brown back and rump, buff underparts, and a gray-brown crown. It has a narrow white supercilium edged with black, a rufous "collar" on the back of the neck, and a black band across the breast.

M. t. rufescens Plumage Difference

Subspecies M. t. rufescens is almost identical to the nominate subspecies, differing only by having a reddish brown crown.

Singing Behavior

Both sexes of the collared crescentchest sing year round, usually from the top of a low shrub.

Vocalizations

Its song is a series of 3-6 loud, resonant "chip" notes, and its call is a penetrating churr.

Geographic Distribution

The collared crescentchest is found primarily in central Brazil, and also occurs in far northeastern Paraguay.

Habitat Type

It inhabits cerrado, a biome characterized by a mix of savannah and woodlands.

Habitat Preferences

It prefers wetter open areas and avoids disturbed areas.

Elevation Range

Its elevation range extends up to 1,400 m (4,600 ft).