The chestnut-headed tanager is a species of bird in the tanager family Thraupidae. It is found in the Atlantic Forest of southeast Brazil, eastern Paraguay, and far northeastern Argentina. It was formerly the only member of the genus Pyrrhocoma but is now placed in Thlypopsis.
Region
Atlantic Forest (Brazil, eastern Paraguay, northeastern Argentina)
Typical Environment
Occupies humid evergreen and semi-deciduous Atlantic Forest, especially forest edges, second growth, and canopy gaps. It is most often seen in the mid-to-upper canopy, but will descend to understory fruiting shrubs. The species readily uses disturbed forest mosaics provided there is a continuous tree layer. It often accompanies mixed flocks that move along forest strata.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This small tanager is a canopy follower of the Atlantic Forest, frequently joining mixed-species flocks with other tanagers and insectivores. It was formerly placed in its own monotypic genus (Pyrrhocoma) but molecular studies have moved it into Thlypopsis. Habitat loss in the Atlantic Forest is the main pressure on the species, though it persists in some secondary growth and forest edges.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually in small groups or pairs that integrate into mixed-species canopy flocks. Builds cup nests concealed in dense foliage. Likely exhibits cooperative vigilance within flocks while foraging along branches and outer foliage.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a light, tinkling series of thin notes and brief trills delivered from canopy perches. Calls are high, sibilant chips and tsit notes that help maintain contact within flocks.
Plumage
A rich chestnut hood covering the head and often upper throat contrasts with olive-green upperparts and yellow to yellow-olive underparts. Subtle grayish nape/collar may be present, with cleaner yellow belly and slightly paler vent. Wings and tail are dusky with olive edging, giving a smooth, unpatterned look in flight.
Diet
Takes small fruits and berries from canopy and edge shrubs, often swallowing whole and later dispersing seeds. Also gleans arthropods such as caterpillars, beetles, and small spiders from leaves and twigs. Will sally short distances to snatch prey disturbed by flock movement.
Preferred Environment
Forages mainly in the mid to upper canopy of humid forest, along edges, and in secondary growth with fruiting plants. Frequently follows mixed-species flocks to exploit prey flushed by other birds.
