saíra caterpillar

saíra caterpillar

The Saíra-caterpillar is a Thraupidae passerine family. Also known as Saíra-of-saw and Saíra-green.

features

Measures about 13.5 cm. Do not show sexual dimorphism. The vocalization consists of short, sharp sounds "zi-zi-zi-zip" sung by an individual and accompanied by band components.

food

It feeds on fruits, leaves, larvae and insects.

reproduction

It reaches sexual maturity at 12 months. Nests bowl type. Each litter is generally between 2 and 3 eggs having 2 to 3 offspring per season. The chicks hatch after 15-17 days. The chicks leave the nest after about 20 days.

habits

It inhabits high points of the Serra do Mar, Mantiqueira, Caparaó of Ibitipoca and Caraça, 8 to 10 groups of individuals. Live in barns and in the forests in mountainous regions. Was observed in these birds the act of "tingle up", that is to grab live ants with the nozzle and insert them between the feathers of course to enjoy the caustic effect of formic acid.