The black-chested mountain tanager is a species of bird in the family Thraupidae.
Region
Northern Andes
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid montane and cloud forests, forest edges, and second growth with tall trees. Prefers the middle and upper canopy where it forages among bromeliads and epiphyte-laden limbs. Regularly joins mixed-species flocks along forested ridges and in gaps with fruiting trees. Found from the east and west Andean slopes into adjacent foothills where mature forest persists.
Altitude Range
1800–3500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The black-chested mountain tanager is a striking canopy bird of humid Andean cloud forests, often accompanying mixed-species flocks. It was formerly placed in the genus Buthraupis but is now in Cnemathraupis based on genetic evidence. It is typically seen at middle to upper elevations where it moves methodically through mossy branches in search of fruit and insects.
Papallacta Pass – Ecuador
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually in pairs or small family groups and frequently participates in mixed-species canopy flocks. Builds a cup-shaped nest in dense vegetation or small trees, with both parents attending the young. Territorial defense is moderate, with soft contact calls exchanged while foraging.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of thin, high-pitched whistles and trills delivered from the canopy. Calls include sharp metallic chips and soft contact notes given while moving with flocks.
Plumage
Olive to yellowish-green upperparts with contrasting bright blue wings and tail; underparts yellow with a bold black band across the chest. Head dusky to blackish with cleaner yellow on the lower throat; wings show blue panels with darker flight feathers.
Diet
Takes a variety of small fruits and berries, especially from melastomes and other canopy shrubs. Also gleans insects and other arthropods from leaves, twigs, and moss, and occasionally pursues flushed prey. Will join feeding frenzies at fruiting trees and supplement its diet with flower buds or small seeds when fruit is scarce.
Preferred Environment
Feeds mainly in the middle to upper canopy of humid cloud forest, along edges, landslides, and forest gaps with fruiting plants. Often forages among epiphytes and mossy branches and along ridge-top forests where flocks move steadily.
