The buff-breasted mountain tanager is a species of Neotropical bird in the tanager family Thraupidae.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs along humid montane forests and forest edges from the northern Andes southward, favoring mossy, epiphyte-laden cloud forests. It is regularly found at forest borders, along clearings, and in patches of Chusquea bamboo, and may venture into shrubby páramo edges. Birds forage from the mid-story to canopy, often following fruiting trees and mixed flocks. Local movements track food resources but it remains within montane habitats year-round.
Altitude Range
2000–3600 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The buff-breasted mountain tanager is a Neotropical songbird of Andean cloud forests, often joining mixed-species flocks as it forages along mossy branches. It feeds on a blend of small fruits and arthropods, gleaned methodically from foliage. Its warm buff underparts contrast with cooler blue-green upperparts, making it distinctive in the dim forest understory. It is generally a quiet resident, moving locally with food availability rather than migrating long distances.
Papallacta Pass, Ecuador
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually encountered in pairs or small groups and frequently joins mixed-species foraging flocks. Nests are presumed to be open cups placed in dense vegetation typical of many tanagers. Breeding pairs maintain small territories during the nesting period but are otherwise tolerant around rich food sources.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a soft, thin series of high-pitched whistles and twitters delivered from mid-level perches. Calls include short 'tsit' and sibilant notes used to keep contact within flocks.
