Beautiful Birds of Belize Blog – Post #6

By Jim Gain

4/2/2023

• Scientific Name: Tityra semifasciata
• Name in Spanish (Mexico): Titira Puerquito
• ABA 4-Letter Bird Code: MATI
• Family: Tityridae – Tityras and Allies
• Order: Passeriformes – Nightjars, Potoos, Swifts and Hummingbirds

About this Bird

The Masked Tityra (Tityra semifasciata) is a species of bird that is found in Central and South America, including Belize. These birds are primarily found in humid forests and wooded areas, but can also be found in drier habitats such as savannas and plantations. They are known for their distinctive black mask, which contrasts with their white body.

The Masked Tityra feeds on a variety of fruits, insects, and small vertebrates, including lizards and frogs. They are also known for their unique breeding behavior, which involves the male building a nest out of sticks and presenting it to the female. The female then lines the nest with feathers and other soft materials before laying her eggs.

In Belize, the Masked Tityra is considered a fairly common resident bird species. However, like many bird species in the region, they are threatened by habitat loss and fragmentation due to deforestation and agricultural expansion. Conservation efforts, such as protecting and restoring habitat, are crucial for ensuring the continued survival of this species in Belize and throughout its range.

>> Next Post on Tuesday, 4/4/2023 – Jabiru

Previous posts from Beautiful Birds of Belize Blog

• White Ibis
• Limpkin
• Anhinga
• Scaly-breasted Hummingbird
• Gray-breasted Martin