The blue-backed tanager is a species of South American bird in the tanager family Thraupidae. It is the only member of the genus Cyanicterus.
Region
Guianas and northern Amazon Basin
Typical Environment
Occurs in northeastern South America, including Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, adjacent southeastern Venezuela, and northern Brazil (e.g., Amapá, northern Pará, and Roraima). It occupies tropical moist lowland forests, terra firme, forest edges, and tall secondary growth. The species forages mainly in the mid- to upper canopy but also uses edge habitats near rivers and clearings. It is generally uncommon to locally fairly common where intact forest remains.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The blue-backed tanager is the sole member of the genus Cyanicterus, a striking Neotropical tanager of the Guianan Shield. It frequents the mid- to upper canopy and often joins mixed-species flocks while foraging. Pairs or small groups move quietly through fruiting trees, and the female is typically duller than the male.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups and commonly associates with mixed-species flocks in the canopy. Nests are presumed cup-shaped and placed in concealed foliage, as in many tanagers. Breeding is likely during the wetter part of the year, with both parents involved in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations include thin, high-pitched tseet notes and a light, tinkling series delivered from the canopy. The song is soft and brief, often interspersed with sharper contact calls while moving with flocks.
