The metallic-green tanager is a species of bird in the family Thraupidae. It is found in Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist montane forests.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs in the humid montane forests of the northern Andes from Colombia south through Ecuador to northern Peru. It favors cloud forests, forest edges, and epiphyte-rich canopy layers, often along ridges and steep slopes. Birds commonly range in the mid to upper canopy but will descend to fruiting trees. It persists in well-wooded secondary growth but is scarce in heavily fragmented habitats.
Altitude Range
600–2400 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This striking tanager often travels high in the canopy with mixed-species foraging flocks, where its metallic sheen blends with sun-dappled leaves. It feeds on small fruits and arthropods, helping disperse seeds in montane forests. The species tolerates forest edges and secondary growth but depends on humid montane habitats. Its name ‘labradorides’ alludes to the gem-like, labradorescent sheen of its plumage.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between canopy gaps
Social Behavior
Typically moves in pairs or small groups and frequently joins mixed-species flocks with other tanagers and canopy gleaners. Nesting is presumed to be a concealed cup in dense foliage, with both parents participating in care. Territoriality is modest, with most activity focused on following fruiting trees and flock movements.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are thin, high-pitched chips and rapid twitters delivered from the canopy. Song is a light, tinkling series of notes interspersed with sharper contact calls.
