Some Venezuelan wild bird species that box against their own reflections

Abstract

Data about shadow boxing behavior in Neotropical wild birds is almost absent. A total of 16 novel wild bird species were found performing shadow boxing behavior in northern Venezuela. Families Trochilidae, Picidae, Tyrannidae, Corvidae, Turdidae, Mimidae, Thraupidae, Emberizidae, and Parulidae were represented, with Trochilidae and Tyrannidae reported for the first time. Reflecting surfaces were car components, home windows, glass sliding doors, and a stainless steel pot. As expected, date of records and breeding season information matched for all species. Nonetheless, the White-vented Plumeleteer Chalybura buffonii behavior does not appear to be related to its breeding condition. Instead, this species shadow box to defend a food source. While most birds shadow box with their beak, wings and feet, Trochilidae species developed aerial displays, and beat their reflections with the breast and beak. Two records involved female individuals. Recorded information noticeably improves the previous knowledge of avian shadow boxing behavior in Venezuela and the Neotropical region.