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Overview
Glistening-green tanager

Glistening-green tanager

Wikipedia

The glistening-green tanager is a species of bird in the family Thraupidae. It is found in Colombia and Ecuador.

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Distribution

Region

Western Andes of Colombia and northwestern Ecuador

Typical Environment

Inhabits humid montane and cloud forests on the west Andean slopes, favoring moss-laden, epiphyte-rich canopies. It uses forest interiors as well as edges and semi-open second growth with tall trees. Birds frequently attend fruiting trees and follow mixed-species flocks along ridgelines and ravines. Local presence is tied to continuous canopy cover and minimal disturbance.

Altitude Range

600–2200 m

Climate Zone

Highland

Characteristics

Size12–13 cm
Wing Span18–22 cm
Male Weight0.019 kg
Female Weight0.018 kg
Life Expectancy6 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

This dazzling Andean tanager lives in humid cloud forests, where its iridescent green plumage blends with mossy canopies. It often joins mixed-species flocks, moving nimbly through the mid to upper canopy in search of small fruits and insects. The species is sensitive to forest loss but persists in well-forested montane regions.

Gallery

Bird photo
Bird photo
Bird photo

Behaviour

Temperament

social and active

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats

Social Behavior

Usually seen in pairs or small groups and commonly joins mixed-species canopy flocks. Forages methodically among leaves, twigs, and fruit clusters, often in the mid to upper canopy. Nesting is presumed to be a compact cup hidden among dense foliage or epiphytes, with both parents participating in care.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Gives thin, high-pitched notes and soft twitters that can be easily overlooked against forest background noise. Calls are brief and contact-oriented, with occasional short, tinkling phrases during heightened activity.

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