The dusky chlorospingus or dusky bush tanager is a species of bird traditionally placed in the family Thraupidae, but now viewed as closer Arremonops in the Passerellidae.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid montane forest of the Western and Central Andes from southwestern Colombia into northwestern Ecuador. Prefers cloud forest, forest edges, tall second growth, and bamboo thickets, often along ravines and mossy slopes. It uses mid to lower strata but will move into the canopy while following mixed flocks. Tolerant of some disturbance, it can persist in well-vegetated secondary habitats where forest structure remains complex.
Altitude Range
800–2600 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The dusky chlorospingus (also called dusky bush tanager) is now placed with New World sparrows (Passerellidae), despite its tanager-like common name. It is a canopy and mid-understory forager that frequently joins mixed-species flocks in Andean cloud forests. Its subtle plumage makes it easy to overlook, but its soft, high-pitched calls often reveal its presence. It plays an important role in insect control and seed dispersal in montane ecosystems.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often travels in pairs or small family groups and regularly joins mixed-species flocks with tanagers, warblers, and furnariids. Builds a cup nest low to mid-level in dense vegetation or bamboo. Both parents participate in feeding the young, and territories are maintained loosely around nesting sites.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a soft series of thin, high-pitched twitters and short trills, delivered from mid-level perches. Calls are sharp, sibilant chips and tseet notes used to keep contact within flocks.
