The gold-ringed tanager is a species of bird in the family Thraupidae, endemic to Colombia. It is a plump, relatively short-tailed tanager with a distinctive gold ring around its face. It inhabits a narrow band of high-altitude cloud forest on the slopes of the western cordillera of the Andes, where it survives on a diet of fruit and insects. The bird is found in small numbers within a limited geographical area, and much of its breeding biology has yet to be described. It is considered a vulnerable species, threatened by habitat loss.
Region
Western Andes of Colombia
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid, epiphyte-rich cloud forest and mature montane forest with abundant mosses and bromeliads. It favors ridgelines, steep slopes, and mid- to upper-canopy strata, occasionally venturing to forest edges and older secondary growth when fruiting trees are present. The species occupies a very restricted range with patchy, localized populations. Intact primary forest is important, and it is sensitive to extensive clearing or fragmentation.
Altitude Range
1300–2200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The gold-ringed tanager is a chunky, short-tailed tanager recognized by a striking golden ring encircling the face. It inhabits a very narrow elevational band of humid cloud forest on Colombia’s Western Andes. Often joining mixed-species flocks, it feeds on small fruits and arthropods among moss-laden branches. Its breeding biology remains poorly known, and the species is threatened by ongoing habitat loss.
Gold-ringed tanager in typical cloud forest habitat.
Temperament
secretive and canopy-oriented
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick dashes between branches
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups, and frequently joins mixed-species foraging flocks moving through the mid-canopy. Territoriality appears limited, with foraging focused on fruiting trees and rich epiphyte patches. Nesting behavior is poorly documented, though it likely builds a cup nest concealed in dense vegetation, with both parents provisioning young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are soft, thin whistles and high, sibilant tseet notes interspersed with brief, delicate phrases. Calls carry within the forest interior but are not loud, often given while moving with flocks in the mid-canopy.
