The blue-capped tanager is a species of bird in the tanager family Thraupidae. It was formerly placed in the genus Thraupis but is now the only species in the genus Sporathraupis.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs along the Andean slope from Venezuela and Colombia through Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia into northwestern Argentina. It favors humid montane forests, edges, and second growth, and is a familiar visitor to gardens and plantations near forest. The species is most frequently found in the mid- to upper-elevation cloud forest belt and along forested ravines. It tolerates some habitat disturbance and often forages in the canopy and along edges.
Altitude Range
800–3200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The blue-capped tanager is the sole member of the genus Sporathraupis, having been split from Thraupis based on genetic studies. It often joins mixed-species flocks in Andean forests, making it a reliable participant in canopy feeding parties. Several subspecies show subtle regional differences in shade and brightness of the blue crown and body tones.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick, direct dashes between trees
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small groups and frequently joins mixed-species flocks in the canopy. Breeding is presumed monogamous, with a cup nest placed in shrubs or small trees. Both parents participate in feeding nestlings and fledglings.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of thin, tinkling notes and brief twittering phrases, often delivered from mid-canopy perches. Calls include high, sharp chips used to maintain contact within flocks.
Plumage
Greenish to olive upperparts with a contrasting bright blue crown and nape; wings and tail show bluish tones with darker centers. Underparts are yellowish to yellow-green with a paler throat and belly, sometimes with a faint grayish wash on the breast. A subtle dark mask through the lores accentuates the blue cap.
Diet
Feeds on a mix of small fruits and berries along with arthropods such as caterpillars, beetles, and spiders. Gleans insects from foliage and twigs and occasionally sallies short distances to snatch prey. Fruits from melastomes and other montane shrubs form an important part of the diet, especially outside the breeding season.
Preferred Environment
Forages along forest edges, in secondary growth, and in the canopy of humid montane forest. Frequently visits fruiting trees and shrubs in gardens and plantations adjacent to native habitat.
