Galapagos Mockingbird illustration
Birdsong field guide

Galapagos Mockingbird

Mimus parvulus

The Galapagos Mockingbird is a bold, highly social passerine and the most widespread mockingbird species across the archipelago. It played a pivotal role in Charles Darwin's development of the theory of evolution via natural selection.

What it sounds like

A complex and loud series of musical whistles, harsh chirps, and rhythmic melodic phrases.

Reference call, compare with what you heard
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Rec. Manuel Sánchez-Nivicela · EcuadorCC BY-NC-NDXeno-canto

Field notes

  • Charles Darwin's observations of this species' island-to-island variations were more influential to his early evolutionary theories than his study of finches.
  • They are opportunistic feeders known to drink blood from the wounds of sea lions and iguanas during periods of drought.
  • This species frequently engages in cooperative breeding, where non-breeding subordinate group members assist a dominant pair in raising young.
  • They are remarkably fearless of humans and are known to approach visitors to investigate or scavenge for food and water.
  • While capable of flight, they frequently prefer running along the ground to hunt insects and lizards or to navigate volcanic terrain.
Habitat
Arid lowland scrub, deciduous forests, and cactus-dominated landscapes.
Range
Endemic to the Galápagos Islands, inhabiting most of the archipelago except for Española, San Cristóbal, and Floreana.

Similar & commonly confused birds

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