The fulvous shrike-tanager is a South American bird in the tanager family Thraupidae. It is found in Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Peru, Suriname, and Venezuela. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests.
Region
Amazon Basin and the Guianas
Typical Environment
Occurs widely in subtropical and tropical moist lowland forests, including terra firme and seasonally flooded várzea. Most often found in the mid- to upper canopy and along forest edges and light gaps. It also uses tall secondary growth, riparian corridors, and edges near rivers. The species ranges across northern Amazonia, including the Guianan Shield and adjacent lowlands.
Altitude Range
0–1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This canopy-dwelling tanager often participates in, and can help lead, mixed-species foraging flocks in Amazonian forests. Its robust, slightly hooked bill is adapted to pry into curled leaves and foliage for hidden arthropods. Although primarily an insect-eater, it also takes small fruits, especially when insects are less abundant.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats through the canopy
Social Behavior
Frequently joins mixed-species flocks in the mid- to upper canopy and may serve as a nuclear species that other birds follow. Usually found in pairs or small groups within these flocks. Nests are typical cup structures placed in dense foliage; pairs defend a breeding territory while remaining otherwise tolerant of flock associates.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations include sharp, ringing notes and clear whistles that carry through the canopy. Contact calls are crisp chips used to keep flock cohesion, while the song is a short, bright series of notes delivered from mid-canopy perches.
