The 'Palmchat', ''Dulus dominicus'', is a small (20 cm / 8 in long)
passerine bird which is the sole member of the family Dulidae. It is thought to be related to the
waxwings, and is sometimes classified with that group.
It is
endemic to the island of
Hispaniola (The
Dominican Republic and
Haiti ) and its adjacent keys and islets, where it is common and widespread.
This bird builds large communal stick nests, mainly in
royal palms (''Roystonea'' sp.), and feeds on flowers, berries and other fruit. It inhabits lowlands to mid-elevations where palm savannas can be found, or other open areas with scattered trees, but also adapts well to areas such as city parks and gardens.
This bird resembles an
oriole in structure, but is brownish above, and buff, heavily streaked with brown, below. It does not have the soft silky plumage of the waxwings or
silky-flycatchers.
It is the national bird of the Dominican Republic.
★ 'Family: Dulidae'
★
★ Palmchat ''Dulus dominicus''
References
★ Database entry includes justification for why this species is of least concern
External link
★
The Endemic Birds of Hispaniola