The blue-naped chlorophonia is a colourful South American species of bird in the family Fringillidae; it was formerly placed in the Thraupidae. It is generally fairly common.
Region
Northern and eastern South America
Typical Environment
Prefers humid evergreen and montane forests, including cloud forest edges, tall secondary growth, and forested ravines. Most frequently seen in the mid to upper canopy, where it moves methodically among fruiting trees and epiphyte-laden branches. It can occur along forest edges and in partially disturbed habitats if fruit resources are abundant. Often associates with mixed-species flocks but remains focused on berry-laden shrubs and trees.
Altitude Range
300–2200 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The blue-naped chlorophonia is a small, brilliantly colored Neotropical finch now placed in the family Fringillidae (formerly in Thraupidae). Males show a vivid blue patch on the nape that contrasts with bright green upperparts and yellow underparts. It often travels in pairs or small groups in the forest canopy and is strongly tied to fruiting trees, especially mistletoes. It is generally fairly common in suitable humid forests.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or small family parties, sometimes joining mixed-species canopy flocks. Nests are typically neat, domed structures concealed in dense foliage or epiphytes. Courtship includes soft calls and close-following displays. Both sexes tend to remain within fruit-rich territories.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Thin, high-pitched whistles and short, sweet phrases repeated at intervals. Calls include soft chips and sibilant notes used to keep contact in the canopy.
Plumage
Compact, glossy-looking plumage with smooth, unbarred surfaces; males show a distinct blue patch on the hindcrown/nape set against bright green upperparts and clean yellow underparts; females are greener and duller below.
Diet
Primarily consumes small fruits and berries, especially mistletoes and other hemi-epiphytes. Also takes soft pulp from a variety of native forest fruits and occasionally supplements with small arthropods. Feeding is deliberate, often plucking berries individually and swallowing them whole. Plays an important role in seed dispersal within montane forests.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the mid to upper canopy of humid forests, frequently visiting fruiting trees and tangled epiphyte clumps. Will use edges, clearings, and secondary forest where berry resources persist.
