FeatherScan logo
FeatherScan
Overview
Brassy-breasted tanager

Brassy-breasted tanager

Wikipedia

The brassy-breasted tanager is a species of bird in the family Thraupidae. It is endemic to Brazil. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist montane forests.

Loading map...

Distribution

Region

Atlantic Forest of southeastern Brazil

Typical Environment

This species inhabits humid montane forests, especially in the Atlantic Forest ranges of southeastern Brazil. It frequents mature forest, forest edges, second growth, and epiphyte-rich canopies. Birds are most often seen in the mid- to upper canopy, but will descend to fruiting shrubs along edges and clearings. It tolerates some habitat disturbance where fruiting trees remain, yet relies on continuous forest for breeding.

Altitude Range

600–2000 m

Climate Zone

Highland

Characteristics

Size12–14 cm
Wing Span20–23 cm
Male Weight0.018 kg
Female Weight0.017 kg
Life Expectancy6 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

The brassy-breasted tanager is a brilliantly colored tanager endemic to Brazil’s Atlantic Forest highlands. It often joins mixed-species flocks, moving actively through the canopy in search of fruit and insects. Its common name refers to the metallic, brassy sheen on its breast, which contrasts with bluish underparts and green upperparts.

Gallery

Bird photo
Bird photo
Bird photo

Behaviour

Temperament

social and active

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats

Social Behavior

Usually seen in pairs or small groups and commonly joins mixed-species flocks moving through the canopy. Nests are small cups concealed in dense foliage, and pairs defend a modest area around the nest. Outside breeding, it forages cooperatively and tracks seasonal fruiting trees.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Voice is a series of thin, high-pitched chips and twitters, often given while foraging in flocks. Song is a soft, rapid, tinkling sequence interspersed with sharp call notes.

Similar Bird Species