Grass-green tanager

The grass-green tanager is a small South America bird in the tanager family Thraupidae. It is the only member of the genus Chlorornis.

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Distribution

Region

Northern and central Andes

Typical Environment

Found in humid montane and cloud forests from western Venezuela through the Andes of Colombia and Ecuador into northern Peru. It favors mossy, epiphyte-rich forests, forest edges, and mature secondary growth. Birds typically use the midstory to canopy, often near fruiting trees. They are regularly seen accompanying mixed-species flocks moving along forested slopes and ravines.

Altitude Range

1500–3300 m

Climate Zone

Highland

Characteristics

Size18–19 cm

Wing Span25–28 cm

Male Weight0.04 kg

Female Weight0.037 kg

Life Expectancy6 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

The grass-green tanager is the sole member of the genus Chlorornis and is notable for its remarkably uniform leaf-green plumage that blends seamlessly into mossy cloud forests. It often joins mixed-species flocks and forages among epiphytes and bromeliads. Despite its bright color, it can be surprisingly hard to spot in dense foliage.

Gallery

Behaviour

Temperament

social and active

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats between trees; quick, direct dashes through the canopy

Social Behavior

Usually in pairs or small family groups and frequently joins mixed-species flocks with other Andean tanagers and bush-tanagers. Nests are placed in dense vegetation or mossy tangles, with both adults participating in care. Territorial behavior is modest, especially where food is abundant.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Song consists of thin, high-pitched whistles and sibilant notes delivered from the mid-canopy. Calls are soft tseet or seee contact notes that carry poorly in wind but travel within dense foliage.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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