Silver-throated Tanager

The Silver-throated Tanager, a passerine bird of the Tanager family Thraupidae, is a vibrant spectacle in the forests it inhabits. Adult males are resplendent in bright yellow plumage, adorned with a silvery-white throat that is strikingly bordered above by a black stripe on the cheeks. Their backs are etched with black streaking, and the wings and tail boast green edges. Females, though slightly less vivid, share a similar coloration but with a duller, greener sheen. Juveniles present a more subdued appearance, with greener tones and a grey throat, maturing into their adult colors after the first breeding season.

Identification Tips

To identify the Silver-throated Tanager, look for its distinctive silvery-white throat and the black cheek stripe that sets it apart from other yellow tanagers. The male's bright yellow body and streaked back are also key characteristics. Females and juveniles can be recognized by their duller, greener plumage.

Habitat

This species thrives in a variety of forested environments, from mossy and montane evergreen forests to tropical lowland evergreen forests and their edges. It is also found in tall secondary forests and disturbed habitats with remaining trees.

Distribution

The Silver-throated Tanager graces the landscapes of Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Ecuador, and northeastern Peru, typically at elevations ranging from 600 to 1,800 meters, but occasionally found from sea level up to 2,300 meters.

Behaviour

These tanagers are often seen foraging in pairs or small groups, sometimes joining mixed-species feeding flocks. They exhibit a year-round bond with their mates, though this association loosens post-breeding season. Observations include their penchant for bathing in natural water collections, such as tree hollows.

Song & Calls

The species communicates with insect-like buzzes, including a harsh, buzzy "jjeut" or a high-pitched "bzeeet" when in motion. A high-pitched "tic" is also part of its vocal repertoire, while its song remains undescribed.

Breeding

Breeding takes place from April to September in Costa Rica, with females constructing cup nests out of moss, leaves, and spider webs. Clutches typically consist of two eggs, incubated solely by the female. Nestlings fledge around 15 days old, ready to fend for themselves.

Similar Species

While there are no similar species mentioned, the Silver-throated Tanager can be distinguished from other tanagers by its unique throat coloration and cheek stripe.

Diet and Feeding

An omnivorous bird, the Silver-throated Tanager primarily consumes fruits, particularly melastomes, and supplements its diet with arthropods. It forages in the canopy, adeptly maneuvering through branches in search of its varied diet.

Conservation status

The IUCN lists the Silver-throated Tanager as Least Concern, acknowledging its broad range and stable population. However, habitat destruction poses a threat, necessitating continued conservation efforts.