Common Bush Tanager

The common chlorospingus, or common bush tanager (Chlorospingus flavopectus), presents itself as a small, active passerine bird. Adults measure approximately 13.5 cm in length and weigh around 20 grams. They exhibit a brown head with a subtle supercilium and a distinctive white spot behind the eye. The throat is light, transitioning to yellow underparts and a white belly. Olive upperparts complete their plumage. Variability in cheek, throat, and eye region coloration suggests a complex of cryptic species within this group.

Identification Tips

To identify the common chlorospingus, look for the brown head with a usually thin supercilium and a white eye spot. The throat is light, and the underparts are yellow, fading to white on the belly. Immature birds are browner above and darker below, with a less vibrant olive eye spot. Hatchlings are covered in dark gray down and have bright yellow bills.

Habitat

This species thrives in cloud forests rich in undergrowth and adjacent bushy clearings. The vegetation is typically dominated by families such as Asteraceae, Clusiaceae, Cyatheaceae, Melastomataceae, Rubiaceae, and Winteraceae, with epiphytes from the Araceae and Orchidaceae families.

Distribution

The common chlorospingus is a resident breeder found in the highlands from central Mexico to Bolivia and northwest Argentina. Its altitudinal range varies from 400 to 2,300 meters above sea level in Middle America and 2,000 to 3,500 meters near the Equator.

Behaviour

Often encountered in small groups or within mixed-species feeding flocks, the common chlorospingus is relatively sedentary. It feeds on insects, spiders, small fruits, and nectar.

Song & Calls

The call of the common chlorospingus is a squeaky "tseeet" or "chit," while its songs vary widely among populations.

Breeding

Breeding mainly occurs from October to May, with nests hidden below vegetation on banks, slopes, hollows, tree trunks, amongst epiphytes, or high in trees. The nest is a bulky cup made from twigs, roots, leaves, and mosses. Clutch size varies geographically, with two eggs being common, though one-egg clutches may occur in the southern Andes.

Similar Species

The sooty-capped chlorospingus (C. pileatus) is similar but can be distinguished by its blacker head and bold white supercilium instead of an eye spot.

Diet and Feeding

The diet consists of insects, spiders, small fruits, and nectar, with feeding habits adapted to its cloud forest environment.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List classifies the common chlorospingus as Least Concern, indicating a stable population without significant immediate threats to its survival.

In the voice of David Attenborough: "In the misty cloud forests of the highlands, the common chlorospingus flits about in search of sustenance, its varied calls echoing through the undergrowth. A bird of subtle beauty, it is a testament to the rich tapestry of life that thrives in these verdant ecosystems."