The black-and-gold tanager is a species of bird in the family Thraupidae, which is endemic to Colombia.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Endemic to the cloud forests on the western slope of Colombia’s Western Andes. It favors mature, humid montane forest with abundant epiphytes and fruiting trees, but may also use secondary forest and well-vegetated edges. Typically forages in the midstory and canopy, moving along ridges and steep ravines. The species is localized and patchily distributed where continuous forest remains. Deforestation and fragmentation confine it to remnant tracts and protected areas.
Altitude Range
1300–2200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This striking tanager is restricted to humid montane forests of Colombia’s Western Andes. It often joins mixed-species flocks, moving through the midstory and canopy in search of fruits and arthropods. Habitat loss from deforestation and fragmentation has led to a high conservation concern. Observations are most reliable in protected or relatively intact cloud-forest tracts.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between trees
Social Behavior
Often travels in pairs or small groups and frequently joins mixed-species flocks, especially tanagers and furnariids. Breeding pairs are territorial around nest sites placed in dense vegetation in montane forest. Nesting likely occurs during local wet seasons, with both parents involved in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are thin, high-pitched whistles and tsip notes, delivered intermittently from mid-canopy perches. The song is a soft series of clear, sweet phrases, often mixed with contact calls while moving with flocks.
Plumage
Predominantly velvety black with rich golden-yellow patches that provide bold contrast. Bright yellow on the shoulder area (lesser/median coverts), rump, and flanks; underparts otherwise black. Feathers are smooth and sleek, giving a glossy appearance in good light.
Diet
Consumes a mix of small fruits and berries, supplemented by insects and other arthropods gleaned from foliage and epiphytes. It often feeds quietly among bromeliads and moss-laden branches. In mixed flocks it alternates between fruiting trees and foraging substrates, taking advantage of seasonal fruit peaks.
Preferred Environment
Feeds primarily in the midstory to canopy of humid montane forest, especially along forest edges, gaps, and fruiting trees. It also uses secondary growth adjoining intact forest when resources are available.
