The green-and-gold tanager is a species of bird in the family Thraupidae, the tanagers. It is one of 27 species in the genus Tangara.
Region
Amazon Basin
Typical Environment
Found in lowland tropical rainforests of the western and central Amazon, including parts of Brazil, Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador, and Colombia. It prefers tall, mature terra firme forest but also uses seasonally flooded várzea, forest edges, and well-developed secondary growth. Most foraging occurs in the upper canopy and subcanopy, where it tracks fruiting trees. It also follows mixed-species flocks along ridges and river corridors, occasionally descending to midstory levels.
Altitude Range
0–1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The green-and-gold tanager is a vividly colored member of the tanager family (Thraupidae) that forages high in the rainforest canopy. It often joins mixed-species flocks, moving rapidly through fruiting trees while also gleaning small arthropods. Its movements help disperse seeds across Amazonian forests. Males and females look very similar, which can make sexing by plumage difficult.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Commonly travels in small groups and frequently joins mixed-species canopy flocks. Pairs or small parties move quickly between fruiting trees. The nest is a small cup placed high in dense foliage, and breeding pairs defend a small area around the nest.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A thin, high-pitched series of twitters and rapid trills delivered from the canopy. Calls are sharp chips and sibilant notes used to keep contact within flocks.
