The golden-crowned tanager is a species of bird in the family Thraupidae.
Region
Northern Andes
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid montane forests from the Andes of Venezuela and Colombia south through Ecuador to northern Peru. Prefers dense, moss-laden cloud forest, elfin forest, and forest edges with abundant epiphytes. Often found along ridges, steep slopes, and in sheltered gullies. It commonly associates with mixed flocks moving through the midstory and canopy.
Altitude Range
2400–3800 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The golden-crowned tanager is a vividly colored Andean tanager that often joins mixed-species flocks in mossy cloud forests. It is typically seen at high elevations, where it forages methodically among bromeliads and moss. Despite its striking appearance, it can be elusive in the dim midstory of montane forests.
Acanama Reserve - Ecuador
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or small family groups that integrate into mixed-species flocks. Nests are concealed in dense moss or low vegetation, with a cup structure typical of many tanagers. Breeding pairs are attentive, and both adults feed the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft, high-pitched series of thin twitters and tinkling notes, often given while moving with flocks. Calls are sharp, sibilant tseets that help individuals keep contact in dense foliage.
Plumage
Rich bluish to cobalt body with a contrasting dark head and a bright, metallic-looking crown patch. Subtle chestnut to rufous tones on the ear coverts contrast with the darker face. The wings and tail are dusky with bluish edging, and the underparts are uniformly blue-toned.
Diet
Feeds on small insects and other arthropods gleaned from leaves, moss, and bromeliads. Also consumes berries and small fruits, especially when insect prey is less abundant. Foraging is deliberate, often probing epiphytes and leaf clusters.
Preferred Environment
Midstory to canopy of humid, mossy forest and forest edges. Frequently follows mixed-species flocks along forested ridgelines and steep slopes.
