Yellow-winged Tanager

The Yellow-winged Tanager (Thraupis abbas) is a medium-sized bird, approximately 18 centimeters in length, belonging to the tanager family. Its plumage is primarily a dark bluish-gray, with distinctive yellow patches on its dusky green wings. The throat and breast exhibit a subtle pale lavender hue. Juveniles, however, lack the lavender tone and are characterized by an olive-green head and upper back.

Identification Tips

To identify the Yellow-winged Tanager, look for the yellow patches on the wings which stand out against the darker body feathers. The pale lavender on the throat and breast can also be a distinguishing feature, though it may be less pronounced in certain lights. Juveniles can be recognized by their olive-green head and upper back.

Habitat

This species thrives in open humid and mesic woodlands, where it can often be seen in the canopy or mid-levels of the forest.

Distribution

The Yellow-winged Tanager is native to the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean coasts, ranging from Veracruz and southern San Luis Potosi in Mexico, through the Yucatán Peninsula to Nicaragua. It is also found along the Pacific coast from Chiapas, Mexico to Honduras. Since October 2010, sightings have been recorded in Los Chiles, northern Costa Rica.

Behaviour

The Yellow-winged Tanager is a sociable bird, frequently forming flocks that can number 50 or more. It is an active forager, feeding on a diet of fruit, insects, and nectar. When in flight or perched, it emits a high, sibilant call.

Song & Calls

The call of the Yellow-winged Tanager is a high-pitched and sibilant sound that can be heard both when the bird is in motion and while it is perched.

Breeding

The female Yellow-winged Tanager constructs a small cup-shaped nest from dried fibers, leaves, and mosses, typically situated at mid-height in trees. She lays a clutch of 3 eggs, which are gray and mottled with brown.

Similar Species

While there are no specific similar species mentioned, when identifying the Yellow-winged Tanager, be mindful of other tanagers and birds with yellow markings to avoid confusion.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Yellow-winged Tanager consists of fruit, insects, and nectar, which it actively forages for in its woodland habitat.

Conservation status

The Yellow-winged Tanager is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating that it does not face any immediate threats to its survival.