The gilt-edged tanager is a species of bird in the family Thraupidae. It is endemic to Brazil.
Region
Eastern Brazil (Atlantic Forest)
Typical Environment
Occurs in the Atlantic Forest and associated edge habitats in eastern Brazil, including second-growth and plantation mosaics. It favors forest borders, clearings with fruiting trees, and gardens near woodland. Frequently forages in the mid-story to canopy, often moving with mixed flocks. Tolerant of disturbed habitats provided fruit resources remain available.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Endemic to Brazil’s Atlantic Forest, the gilt-edged tanager often joins mixed-species flocks, which helps it find food and avoid predators. Its fondness for fruit makes it an effective seed disperser in degraded and secondary forests, so it can persist in semi-urban green spaces. Despite habitat loss across its range, it remains locally common where forest patches and fruiting trees are available.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Commonly travels in small groups and participates in mixed-species canopy flocks. Pairs or small groups build cup-shaped nests concealed in foliage. Likely monogamous during the breeding season, with both parents attending young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song and calls are high-pitched, thin chips and short twitters, often given while foraging in the canopy. Vocalizations are subtle but contact notes help maintain flock cohesion.
Plumage
Glossy upperparts with golden-yellow edging on the wing feathers and mantle, contrasting with bright bluish underparts and a darker head. Feathers often appear finely edged or “gilt,” giving a scaly, iridescent look in good light.
Diet
Primarily consumes small fruits and berries, supplementing with insects and other arthropods gleaned from foliage. Will visit fruiting trees and shrubs, especially in edges and secondary growth. Occasionally takes nectar or soft invertebrates when available.
Preferred Environment
Feeds mainly in the mid-story to canopy of forest edges, secondary forests, and plantations with fruiting trees. Also forages in parks and gardens adjacent to woodland.
