Palm Tanager

The Palm Tanager (Thraupis palmarum) is a medium-sized bird, measuring approximately 19 cm (7.5 inches) in length and weighing around 36 grams (1.3 ounces). Its plumage is primarily a grey to dull olive-green, with blackish flight feathers and a similarly colored long tail edged in green. A distinctive yellow wingbar is visible during flight. Both sexes are similar in appearance, though females may exhibit a slightly paler hue.

Identification Tips

When identifying the Palm Tanager, look for its grey to olive-green coloration and the yellow wingbar that becomes apparent in flight. The blackish tail with green edging is also a key characteristic. The bird's size and social behavior can aid in identification, as it is often seen in groups.

Habitat

The Palm Tanager is found in semi-open areas, which include cultivated lands and gardens. It has a preference for nesting in palms or under the eaves of houses, indicating its adaptability to human-modified landscapes.

Distribution

This species is a resident breeder with a range extending from Nicaragua through South America to Bolivia, Paraguay, and southern Brazil. It is also present on the islands of Trinidad and Tobago.

Behaviour

Palm Tanagers are social and somewhat restless, yet they exhibit a lack of wariness that makes them more approachable. They have a varied diet that includes a wide array of small fruits, nectar, flower petals, and insects, with caterpillars being a particular dietary component.

Song & Calls

The vocalizations of the Palm Tanager can be described as a fast and squeaky song, which is characteristic of the species and can be helpful in its identification.

Breeding

The female Palm Tanager is responsible for incubating the eggs, which are typically three in number, sometimes two, and are cream with brown blotches. The incubation period lasts for about 14 days, followed by a fledging period of 17 days. The nest is a bulky cup structure, often situated in a tree or under house eaves.

Similar Species

While there may be other tanagers with similar greenish coloration, the Palm Tanager can be distinguished by its specific habitat preferences, social behavior, and the yellow wingbar visible in flight.

Diet and Feeding

The Palm Tanager's diet is quite diverse, including small fruits, nectar, flower petals, and insects. Caterpillars are a notable part of their insect diet.

Conservation status

The Palm Tanager is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating that it does not face any immediate threats to its survival on a global scale.