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The Streaked Saltator (Saltator striatipectus) is a medium-sized, grosbeak-like bird of the family Thraupidae. It is easily recognized by its olive-green upperparts, pale underparts with varying degrees of dark streaking, hefty dark bill, and a short white eyebrow (supercilium).
Until recently, the Streaked Saltator was considered the same species as the Lesser Antillean Saltator, but it was split into its own species based on genetic differences.
Distribution & Habitat
These birds are common, year-round residents distributed across parts of Central and South America, including Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Peru, and Trinidad. They prefer lowland areas, open woodlands, scrub forests, regenerating agricultural lands, and urban gardens.
Diet & Behavior
Their hefty, conical bills are perfectly adapted for a diverse omnivorous diet consisting of seeds, fruits, flowers, and various insects. They are active foragers and are frequently observed in pairs or small groups, singing sweet, melodious whistled tunes from exposed perches.
Breeding
The breeding season aligns with the wet season in their respective regions. They construct neat, cup-shaped nests out of twigs, vines, and grass, usually placed low in shrubs or trees. Females typically lay 2 to 3 eggs, which are usually blue with black spots.
