Black-and-white Monjita Heteroxolmis dominicana Scientific name definitions

The Black-and-white Monjita is a large tyrant flycatcher and the only species in its genus. It has a typical "monjita" appearance in shape, and behavior, although it is not closely related to the other monjitas. This species is native to the southern cone of South America, with its distribution primarily in central and southern Argentina, southern Brazil, and Uruguay. It prefers open habitats like grasslands near marshes and boggy swales, where it often perches prominently on low branches. This species is occasionally observed in mixed flocks with the Saffron-cowled Blackbird (Xanthopsar flavus), feeding on insects and sometimes foraging on the ground for caterpillars. Its plumage is mostly white with striking black wings and a long black tail, distinguishing it from similar species in the Xolmis genus. Both sexes exhibit differences: male is white with black wings and tail; female typically exhibits a grayish hue, characterized by a brownish-grey crown and back, along with darker, more subdued black markings; juveniles resemble females. The total population size of Black-and-white Monjita is not well known (estimated at 6,000–15,000 mature individuals) but its population is declining, and the IUCN considers it Vulnerable.