The black-throated shrike-tanager is a species of bird in the family Thraupidae. It is found in Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, and Mexico. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests.
Region
Mesoamerica (southern Mexico to Honduras)
Typical Environment
Occurs from southeastern Mexico (including Chiapas) through Belize and Guatemala to northern Honduras. It inhabits humid evergreen and semi-evergreen lowland forests, especially mature primary forest and tall secondary growth. Birds are most often found in the midstory to canopy, along forest edges, gaps, and riparian corridors. It avoids open country and heavily degraded habitats, persisting best in large blocks of intact forest.
Altitude Range
0–1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This canopy-dwelling tanager often joins mixed-species flocks, where its sharp, whistled notes can help locate the group. Males show a striking black throat and head, while females are more olive and lack the extensive black. It forages methodically among foliage and vines, gleaning insects and taking small fruits. Habitat loss in lowland forests is the main concern for this species.
Temperament
secretive yet active in canopy
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically found in pairs or small family groups and frequently associates with mixed-species foraging flocks. Builds a cup nest placed in shrubs or small trees; likely monogamous, with both parents caring for young. Territorial calls are given from midstory perches, but birds spend much time quietly foraging within foliage.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song consists of clear, whistled phrases, often delivered in short sequences from concealed perches. Calls include sharp chips and rattling notes used to maintain contact within flocks.
Plumage
Male with black head and throat, olive-green upperparts, and yellow to yellow-olive underparts; female overall olive with paler underparts and minimal or no black on the throat. Both sexes have a stout, shrike-like bill and relatively plain wings with subtle edging.
Diet
Gleans arthropods such as insects and spiders from leaves, vine tangles, and small branches. Also consumes small fruits and berries, especially during periods of lower insect abundance. May occasionally take small seeds or soft-bodied invertebrates. Joins mixed-species flocks to exploit disturbed or productive foraging patches.
Preferred Environment
Forages primarily in the midstory to canopy of humid lowland forest, including forest edges and natural gaps. Also uses tall secondary growth and vine-laden areas near streams.
