The golden-sided euphonia is a species of bird in the family Fringillidae. It is found in northern Brazil, French Guiana, Guyana, Suriname and eastern Venezuela. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest.
Region
The Guianas and northern Amazon Basin
Typical Environment
Occurs in northern Brazil, French Guiana, Guyana, Suriname, and eastern Venezuela, primarily in humid lowland forests. It favors the canopy and forest edges, including riverine forest, second growth, and tall woodland patches. Often found at fruiting trees in light gaps and along forest margins. It tolerates moderately disturbed habitats and may visit shaded plantations and large gardens near intact forest. Presence is closely tied to availability of small, berry-producing plants.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This small canopy-dwelling finch-like tanager is noted for the male’s striking golden patches on the flanks. It feeds heavily on mistletoe berries and other small fruits, playing an important role in seed dispersal. Pairs often keep close contact with soft, high whistles and may join mixed-species flocks at fruiting trees.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Commonly seen in pairs or small family groups high in the canopy. Pairs maintain contact with soft calls and may accompany mixed flocks at fruiting trees. Nests are typically domed structures hidden in vine tangles or foliage; the female incubates while the male assists in feeding nestlings.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song consists of thin, high-pitched whistles and tinkling phrases delivered in short sequences from the canopy. Calls are sharp, sibilant notes used frequently while foraging. Vocalizations carry well but can be easily overlooked among insect noise.
Plumage
Male with glossy blue-black upperparts and head, bright golden sides, and yellowish underparts; female is olive-green above with dull yellow underparts and subtle yellowish flanks.
Diet
Primarily consumes small fruits and berries, especially mistletoes, figs, and other soft fruits, often swallowing them whole and dispersing seeds intact. Occasionally takes small insects or arthropods, particularly when feeding young. Foraging is methodical, with short hops and reaches among fruiting twigs.
Preferred Environment
Feeds mostly in the mid- to upper canopy at fruiting trees along forest edges and river corridors. Also visits second-growth thickets and tall gardens where suitable fruit is available.
