The crimson-collared tanager is a rather small Middle American songbird. It was first described by the French naturalist René-Primevère Lesson in 1831, its specific epithet from the Latin adjective sanguinolentus, "bloodied", referring to its red plumage.
Region
Mesoamerica
Typical Environment
Occurs from the Gulf-Caribbean slope of eastern Mexico south through Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica to western Panama. Prefers humid lowland and foothill forests, edges, and tall second growth. Common in semi-open habitats such as plantations (cacao, banana) and wooded gardens near continuous forest. Usually keeps to midstory and canopy but will descend to fruiting shrubs along roads and clearings.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
A striking Middle American tanager, it shows a vivid crimson hood and collar contrasting with a jet-black body. It is often confused with other Ramphocelus tanagers, but the complete red hood and pale bluish bill help separate it. The species frequents forest edges and second growth, making it a common sight in plantations and gardens within its range. First described by René-Primevère Lesson in 1831, its name refers to the blood-red plumage.
Crimson-collared tanager in Costa Rica
Temperament
wary and active in dense foliage
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or small family groups, sometimes joining mixed-species flocks along forest edges. Builds a cup-shaped nest concealed in shrubs or low trees; both parents feed the young. Territorial during breeding, with duet-like exchanges between mates.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song consists of soft, thin whistles and short phrases, delivered from midstory perches. Calls are sharp metallic 'tik' or 'tsip' notes, often given during foraging or when alarmed.
Plumage
Glossy black body with a vivid crimson hood and collar that completely encircle the head and neck; contrasting bright red mantle merging into the black back.
Diet
Primarily consumes fruit and berries from a variety of native trees and shrubs. Supplements with insects and other arthropods gleaned from foliage and twigs. Occasionally takes small seeds or flower parts, especially when fruit is scarce.
Preferred Environment
Forages at forest edges, in second growth, and in plantations where fruiting trees are abundant. Most feeding occurs in midstory and canopy, with occasional descents to lower shrubs along roadsides and clearings.
