In the realm of the avian world, a captivating creature known as the Long-tailed Silky-flycatcher (*Ptiliogonys caudatus*) emerges as a unique wonder. With its distinctive features including a long tail, crest, and a palette of captivating colors, this bird stands as a testament to the enchanting diversity of nature.
Measuring about 24 cm in length, the Long-tailed Silky-flycatcher showcases a pale grey forehead that provides a charming contrast to its vibrant plumage. With a thrush-sized build and weighing around 37 grams, this species exhibits remarkable elegance and grace. Its crested head, neck, throat, and lower belly are adorned in brilliant yellow, while the back, lower breast, and upper belly display shades of blue-grey. The flight feathers and its strikingly long pointed tail are a deep black, adorned with white spotting that adds an exquisite touch.
Juvenile birds bear a resemblance to their adult counterparts, though they possess shorter central tail feathers and less distinct white spotting on the outer tail.
The Long-tailed Silky-flycatcher can exclusively be found in the mountainous regions of Costa Rica and western Panama, typically dwelling at altitudes ranging from 1,850 meters to the timberline.
These remarkable birds exhibit a preference for mountain forests, secondary forests, and pastures bordered by wooded ravines. Their foraging behavior involves sallying out in small flocks, hovering mid-air as they hunt insects or enjoy small fruits, with a particular fondness for mistletoe.
During the breeding season from April to June, the Long-tailed Silky-flycatcher may nest solitarily or in small groups of up to five pairs. The construction of their bulky, open cup-shaped nests involves plant materials and lichen, often reinforced with caterpillar silk or spider webs. Nesting sites are commonly located in the forks of trees or on top of tall trees or shrubs amidst dense foliage. Both male and female share nest-building duties, with the male also feeding the female during this period. After around 16 to 17 days of incubation, the female hatches the eggs and both parents collaborate in feeding the chicks, which fledge after approximately 24 to 25 days.
Despite being described as “common,” the Long-tailed Silky-flycatcher faces population decline due to habitat destruction caused by activities such as burning, logging, and agricultural expansion. The captivating beauty and unique attributes of this bird underscore the importance of conservation efforts to safeguard its habitat and ensure the continued existence of this remarkable species.
