Green-tailed warbler

The green-tailed warbler, also referred to as the green-tailed ground warbler, is a charming songbird found exclusively on the island of Hispaniola and a few nearby islets. Occasionally, these birds also make unexpected appearances as vagrants in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Measuring approximately 12-14 cm in length, the green-tailed warbler is quite a sight. It boasts olive green upper parts with a grayish head, face, and throat, accompanied by off-white underparts. One of its most distinctive features is its eye color: adults possess striking red eyes, while juveniles have brown eyes, both encircled by a partial white eye-ring. Notably, those living in higher elevations tend to be larger and darker compared to their lowland counterparts.

Regarding classification, the green-tailed warbler was formerly grouped with the New World "warbler" family, Parulidae, in its own unique genus, Microligea. However, recent genetic studies have reclassified it into the family Phaenicophilidae, alongside the genus Xenoligea and the Phaenicophilus palm-tanagers. Additionally, there is a distinct subspecies on Beata Island known as Microligea palustris vasta.

Behaviorally, this warbler is insectivorous, favoring foraging close to the ground in dense underbrush. It thrives in various habitats, including subtropical or tropical dry forests, moist montane forests, and even heavily degraded former forests. These birds can be found from sea level up to elevations exceeding 2,500 meters.