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Overview
Brown-flanked tanager

Brown-flanked tanager

Wikipedia

The brown-flanked tanager is a species of bird in the family Thraupidae. It is endemic to Peru.

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Distribution

Region

Andes Mountains

Typical Environment

Occurs in inter-Andean valleys and the slopes of the Peruvian Andes, favoring dry to semi-humid montane scrub, thickets, and woodland edges. It uses hedgerows and second-growth near agriculture where native shrubs persist. Birds forage from the understory to mid-canopy, often along scrubby ravines. It may accompany mixed flocks through edge habitats and transitional zones between scrub and woodland.

Altitude Range

1500–3200 m

Climate Zone

Highland

Characteristics

Size13–15 cm
Wing Span20–24 cm
Male Weight0.021 kg
Female Weight0.019 kg
Life Expectancy6 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

This understated tanager is found only in Peru, where it frequents scrubby slopes and edges of montane woodland. Its warm brown flanks give the species its name and help it blend into dry, brushy habitats. It often joins mixed-species flocks, moving methodically through foliage in search of small fruits and insects.

Gallery

Bird photo
Bird photo
Bird photo

Behaviour

Temperament

social and active

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats

Social Behavior

Typically forages in pairs or small groups and frequently joins mixed-species flocks in montane scrub and edge habitats. Nests are likely cup-shaped and placed in dense shrubs or low trees. Pairs defend small territories during breeding but are otherwise tolerant of conspecifics.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Song is a light, twittering series of thin notes and soft trills delivered from low to mid-level perches. Calls are sharp chips and thin tsit notes used to keep contact within flocks.

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