The glistening-green tanager is a species of bird in the family Thraupidae. It is found in Colombia and Ecuador.
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
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
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.
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.
Plumage
Iridescent, shimmering green overall with darker, blackish wings edged bluish; underparts similarly bright with slightly paler undertail. Often shows a small orange to rufous patch on the ear coverts that can be subtle in the field. Females are a bit duller and less contrasting.
Diet
Takes small fruits and berries, especially from canopy trees and shrubs. Supplements fruit with insects and other small arthropods gleaned from leaves and twigs. May occasionally sip nectar or probe flowers while foraging.
Preferred Environment
Feeds mainly in the mid to upper canopy of humid montane forests and along forest edges. Often concentrates at fruiting trees and joins mixed flocks moving along the canopy.
