Verdin

What is a "verdin"?

A verdin is a small passerine bird found in the southwestern United States and Mexico. It has a plump body, a short tail, and a small head with a thick, pointed bill. The male and female have similar plumage, with olive-green upperparts and yellow underparts. They have a distinctive bright yellow face with black eyes and a small, pointed crest on their head. Verdins are known for their acrobatic abilities, often hanging upside down to feed on insects and spiders. They are common in desert areas and are often found in mesquite trees or other thorny bushes. Verdins are non-migratory and form monogamous pairs. They build intricate nests that hang from the end of branches, which are made of woven grasses and spider webs.