The golden-collared tanager is a species of bird in the family Thraupidae. It is found in Bolivia and Peru. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist montane forests.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs on the humid east Andean slopes of central and southern Peru into western Bolivia. It favors moss-laden cloud forests, elfin forest, and forest edges with dense epiphytes and bamboo. Birds typically use the mid-story to canopy but will descend to lower strata at forest gaps and along trails. Frequently joins mixed-species foraging flocks moving along ridgelines and steep ravines.
Altitude Range
1800–3100 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A striking Andean tanager, the golden-collared tanager lives in humid montane forests of Peru and Bolivia. Its vivid yellow collar stands out in dim cloud-forest light, making it easier to spot as it moves with mixed-species flocks. It forages methodically along mossy branches, taking small fruits and arthropods. Pairs or small groups often keep to mid-canopy levels near forest edges and clearings.
Temperament
reserved but active, often unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between canopy perches
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups and commonly associates with mixed-species flocks of tanagers and furnariids. Nesting is presumed to be a cup nest placed in dense vegetation, with both parents participating in care. Territoriality appears moderate, with loose pair bonds maintained during the breeding season.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are thin, high-pitched chips and soft, sibilant whistles delivered from mid-canopy perches. Song is modest and intermittent, often overshadowed by louder flock companions.
Plumage
Velvety dark bluish-black body with a bold golden-yellow collar encircling the neck and upper breast; bluish shoulder and wing panel; underparts deep slate-blue.
Diet
Takes small fruits and berries, especially melastomes, and supplements with insects and other arthropods gleaned from foliage and moss. Frequently probes epiphytes and leaf clusters for concealed prey. Will occasionally sally short distances to snatch flying insects. Diet varies seasonally with fruit availability.
Preferred Environment
Forages along mossy branches, tangles, and bamboo in the mid-story to canopy of humid montane forest. Often feeds at forest edges, along trails, and in natural light gaps where fruiting shrubs are accessible.
