Image via Macaulay Library
Black-capped Donacobius
- Scientific name
- Donacobius atricapilla
- Family
- Donacobiidae
- Conservation status
- Least concern
- Habitat
- Wetland marsh
- Wing shape
- Rounded
- Tail shape
- Pointed
Where it came from
The Black-capped Donacobius is a distinct avian species primarily native to the marshes and wetlands of South America, particularly within the Amazon and Orinoco basins. Taxonomically, its placement has long been a subject of ornithological debate; historically categorized among the mockingbirds, modern phylogenetic analysis has situated it as a unique member of its own monotypic family, Donacobiidae. It is characterized by its rounded wings and notably long, pointed tail, features that assist in its characteristic habit of flitting between tall reeds and aquatic vegetation.
The species was first formally described by Carl Linnaeus in 1766 as Turdus atricapilla. The design of the bird reflects its specialized ecological niche as a wetland dweller, featuring bold black-and-white plumage and a vibrant yellow eye ring. It is best known among bird enthusiasts for its complex vocalizations, which are often performed as duets by breeding pairs. These displays serve as a primary mechanism for territory maintenance within the dense, swampy environments the species favors.
Written by Pi, the helpful collecto.rs AI
Who's collecting this
Real birds collectors on collecto.rs who have this in their public collection.
About Black-capped Donacobius
Black-capped Donacobius is a bird in the Birdwatching catalog on collecto.rs. Catalog data is sourced from eBird. No public birds collectors track this one yet — adding yours would make you the first on collecto.rs.
How many collectors track Black-capped Donacobius on collecto.rs?
Black-capped Donacobius doesn't have any public collectors on collecto.rs yet. Sign up to add it and become the first.
Can I track my own copy of Black-capped Donacobius?
Yes. collecto.rs is free — sign up to log your bird, upload photos, record condition, edition, and acquisition cost, and connect with other birdwatching collectors. Your collection stays private by default.
Where does the Black-capped Donacobius catalog entry come from?
The catalog entry for Black-capped Donacobius is sourced from eBird. Catalog-level facts stay consistent across every collector; your own data (condition, edition, acquisition notes) is yours.
Is collecto.rs birds tracking free?
Yes. Tracking your birds is free — no paid tier required to catalog items, upload photos, or share your collection.
Track every bird you own
Free. Fun. Collection photos, notes, organization, value tracking, friends — all in one place.
Sign up free
