The blue-gray tanager is a medium-sized South American songbird of the tanager family, Thraupidae. Its range is from Mexico south to northeast Bolivia and northern Brazil, all of the Amazon Basin, except the very south. It has been introduced to Lima (Peru) and Florida (USA). On Trinidad and Tobago, this bird is called blue jean.
Region
Central America and northern South America
Typical Environment
Common from Mexico through Central America into much of northern and western South America, including the Amazon Basin and Guianas, and on Trinidad and Tobago. It thrives in forest edges, secondary growth, plantations, and urban parks, avoiding the darkest interior forest. Frequently found near human habitation and at fruiting trees and feeders. Locally introduced populations occur in some cities such as Lima, Peru.
Altitude Range
0–2000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Also known as “blue jean” on Trinidad and Tobago, the blue-gray tanager readily adapts to gardens and urban parks and often visits fruit feeders. Several subspecies vary subtly in shade, from pale gray-blue to brighter sky-blue tones. It has been introduced locally outside its core range, including around Lima, Peru, and has appeared in Florida. Its easy coexistence with human-altered landscapes helps keep populations robust.
Blue-gray tanager on an ornamental banana
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between perches
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups, and sometimes joins mixed-species flocks. Builds a neat cup nest in trees or shrubs, often near human dwellings. Both parents care for the young and defend a small territory around the nest.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of thin, high-pitched twitters and squeaky phrases delivered in short bursts. Calls include sharp chips and soft, scolding notes exchanged between pair members.
