The crested ant tanager is a bird in the family Cardinalidae that is endemic to Colombia. It was formerly placed with the red-crowned ant tanager in the genus Habia.
Region
Colombian Andes
Typical Environment
Occurs on the slopes and foothills of the Western and Central Andes of Colombia, mainly in humid foothill and montane forests. Prefers dense understory, forest edges, second growth, and ravines near streams. Frequently forages at lower to mid-levels close to the ground where cover is thick. It can persist in selectively logged or secondary habitats if substantial understory remains intact.
Altitude Range
400–2000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The crested ant tanager belongs to the cardinal family (Cardinalidae) and is found only in Colombia. It often travels in pairs or small groups through dense understory and may follow army-ant swarms to catch flushed arthropods. Its namesake erectile crest is raised during excitement or displays. It sometimes joins mixed-species flocks in humid foothill and montane forests.
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups moving methodically through dense understory. Often accompanies mixed-species flocks and occasionally follows army-ant swarms to capture flushed prey. Nests are typically cup-shaped and placed low to mid-level in dense vegetation, with both parents attending the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of clear, ringing whistles interspersed with chips and short phrases. Calls include sharp notes and scolding chatters given when alarmed or while moving with flocks.
