The orange-bellied euphonia is a species of bird in the finch family, Fringillidae. They were formerly considered tanagers (Thraupidae). It is found in Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Panama, Peru, and Venezuela. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest and subtropical or tropical moist montane forest.
Region
Northern Andes and adjacent lowlands of northern South America and Panama
Typical Environment
Occurs from eastern Panama through Colombia and Venezuela south into Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, and western Brazil, with outlying records in the Guianas. Inhabits humid lowland and foothill forests, edges, second growth, and forested gardens. Often forages in the mid-story to canopy, but will descend to fruiting shrubs along edges. Tolerates semi-open habitats as long as fruiting plants are available.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Orange-bellied euphonias are small, brightly colored finch-like birds now placed in the family Fringillidae after formerly being considered tanagers. Males show striking blue-black upperparts with a yellow forecrown and a vivid orange belly; females are olive above with yellowish underparts. They specialize on small fruits, especially mistletoe berries, and are important seed dispersers. Often found in pairs or small family groups, they readily join mixed-species flocks along forest edges.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Frequently seen in pairs or small groups and often associates with mixed-species flocks along forest edges. Builds a globular, domed nest with a side entrance, typically concealed in foliage or epiphytes. Pairs are monogamous during the breeding season and both sexes participate in nesting duties.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of thin, sweet whistles and tinkling notes delivered in short phrases. Calls include sharp, high-pitched seeps and chips exchanged between foraging birds.
Plumage
Male glossy blue-black above with a yellow forecrown and bright yellow to orange underparts centered with a deep orange belly patch; female olive-green above with dull yellow underparts and a warmer wash on the belly.
Diet
Primarily consumes small fruits and berries, especially mistletoe, which it swallows whole and later regurgitates the seeds. Also takes other soft fruits from shrubs and canopy vines. Occasionally supplements its diet with small insects or spiders, particularly during nesting.
Preferred Environment
Forages in mid-story to canopy at fruiting trees and vines, and at forest edges with dense fruiting shrubs. Frequently visits second growth, forest gaps, and semi-open areas near continuous forest.
