The masked saltator is a species of passerine bird in the tanager family Thraupidae.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs primarily in humid montane and cloud forests of the central Andes, especially along forest edges, secondary growth, and dense shrubby ravines. It favors vine-laden midstory and canopy tangles and may visit forest clearings with fruiting shrubs. Localized within suitable habitat, it can be patchy but persistent where forest cover remains. Often associates with mixed-species flocks in edge and second-growth habitats.
Altitude Range
1500–3200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The masked saltator is a robust, seed-cracking tanager of Andean montane forests, named for its striking dark facial mask. It often keeps to forest edges and vine tangles, where it forages methodically and can be surprisingly secretive despite its size. Its clear, whistled phrases carry through cloud forests at dawn, helping birders locate it long before it’s seen.
Temperament
shy and somewhat skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with direct, low flights between cover
Social Behavior
Typically found singly or in pairs, sometimes joining mixed-species foraging flocks along edges. Pairs maintain small territories and nest in dense vegetation, constructing a cup nest concealed in shrubs or vines. Breeding behavior includes duet-like vocal exchanges and close pair coordination while foraging.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of clear, mellow whistles and piping notes, delivered at measured pace. Calls include sharp chips and softer contact notes used between pair members, especially while moving through cover.
Plumage
Sturdy, olive- to gray-green bird with a contrasting dark facial mask and a stout, seed-cracking bill. Underparts tend to be paler with subtle gray or buff tones, and wings may show dull edging. Overall appearance is clean and smooth with minimal streaking.
Diet
Eats a mix of seeds, fruits, and small invertebrates. Uses its strong conical bill to husk seeds and crush tougher fruit parts. Also gleans insects and arthropods from foliage and occasionally takes berries from exposed perches.
Preferred Environment
Forages along forest edges, second growth, and vine tangles in the midstory and canopy. Will descend to shrub level at fruiting bushes and move methodically through dense foliage.
