Emerald Tanager

The Emerald Tanager, a medium-sized bird of the Tanager family, is a vibrant spectacle in the forests it inhabits. With a length ranging from 10.6 to 13 cm and weighing between 18 to 20.5 grams, this species is a visual delight. The males are adorned with bright green plumage, accented with black streaks on the back and wings, and a distinctive black patch around the ears and beak. The crown and rump are highlighted with a striking yellow, while the females are slightly less vivid, with yellow-green replacing the yellow on their heads.

Identification Tips

To identify the Emerald Tanager, look for its bright green plumage and the black streaking on its back and wings. The black auricular patch and beak are also key features. The yellow on the crown and rump distinguishes it from similar species. Females are duller with yellow-green on the head instead of yellow.

Habitat

The Emerald Tanager favors humid lowland forests, montane evergreen forests, and secondary forests. It thrives at elevations typically between 500 and 900 meters but can be found from 100 to 1,200 meters above sea level.

Distribution

This species graces the forests of Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, and Panama with its presence. It is most commonly found at certain elevations, with its range extending from southern Costa Rica to northern Ecuador.

Behaviour

The Emerald Tanager is an active forager, often seen alone, in pairs, or in small flocks. It may join larger mixed-species flocks in search of food. Its movements are lively, especially when foraging, and it rarely descends to the forest floor.

Song & Calls

The vocal repertoire of the Emerald Tanager includes a sharp "chip" or "tsip" call, which may be repeated or accelerate into a rapid twitter. Its song consists of a series of loud "cheet" or "chiip" notes.

Breeding

Breeding seasons vary by location, with the Emerald Tanager breeding from March to May in Costa Rica and from January to April in Colombia. The nests are cup-shaped structures made of moss, situated on moss-covered branches. Clutches typically contain two eggs.

Diet and Feeding

An omnivorous bird, the Emerald Tanager's diet is primarily fruit-based, supplemented by arthropods, flowers, and flower buds. During the breeding season, arthropods become a more significant part of the diet.

Conservation status

The IUCN lists the Emerald Tanager as Least Concern, thanks to its extensive range and stable population numbers. However, habitat destruction poses a threat, and the species is experiencing local declines due to deforestation.