The chestnut-backed tanager is a species of bird in the family Thraupidae. It is found in southern Brazil, north-eastern Argentina, eastern Paraguay, and Uruguay in mature forests up to 1000m elevation. It is closely related to the rarer black-backed tanager, which have identical plumage except for the males' mantle. Females of the two species are virtually indistinguishable by plumage. This bird is characterized by its blue-green breast and chestnut back. It was previously considered a color morph of the black-backed tanager ; however, Stilpnia is not known to be polymorphic, and the two species have different habitat preferences and breeding range. The tanager is reported as fairly common in part of its range and unlikely to face any particular threats; as a result, the IUCN has listed it as being of Least Concern.
Region
Southern Atlantic Forest
Typical Environment
Occurs in southern Brazil, northeastern Argentina (notably Misiones), eastern Paraguay, and Uruguay. Most frequent in mature humid and semi-deciduous Atlantic Forest, older secondary growth, and forest edges, and occasionally in well-treed parks and plantations. Forages mainly in the mid-story to canopy, descending to edges and clearings to feed. Often associates with mixed flocks of tanagers and other insectivores while moving through the canopy.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1000 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This colorful tanager of the Atlantic Forest is closely related to the rarer black-backed tanager; males differ chiefly in the mantle color (chestnut vs. black), while females are very similar. Chestnut-backed tanagers favor mature and older second-growth forests and are most often seen in the canopy. They frequently join mixed-species flocks and move actively while foraging. The species is assessed as Least Concern and is fairly common across much of its range.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often travels in small groups or joins mixed-species flocks moving through the canopy. Breeding pairs are territorial around the nest, which is typically a small cup concealed in foliage. Clutches are small, and both parents participate in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are thin, high-pitched twitters and tseet notes delivered in short, lively sequences. The song is a soft, hurried warble interspersed with buzzy chips, often given while foraging.
