The orange-throated tanager is a species of bird in the tanager family Thraupidae that is found very locally in humid forests around the Ecuador-Peru border. As a species it is considered threatened. The orange-throated tanager is the only member of the genus Wetmorethraupis, named after the ornithologist Alexander Wetmore. It is closely related to members of the genus Bangsia.
Region
Eastern Andean foothills (Ecuador–northern Peru)
Typical Environment
Occurs very locally in humid evergreen foothill forests on the east slope of the Andes near the Ecuador–Peru border. It favors mature and tall secondary forest, especially along ridges and steep ravines. Birds are most often encountered in the mid-story to canopy, where they move with mixed-species flocks. The species’ range is fragmented, with strongholds in the Cordillera del Cóndor and adjacent foothills. It is sensitive to large-scale forest clearance and mining activities.
Altitude Range
300–1100 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This striking tanager is the sole member of its genus, Wetmorethraupis, honoring ornithologist Alexander Wetmore. It is very local, occurring mainly along the Ecuador–Peru border in humid foothill forests, and often joins mixed-species flocks in the canopy. Habitat loss and mining-related deforestation in the Cordillera del Cóndor region contribute to its threatened status.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often found in small groups or pairs that regularly integrate into canopy mixed-species flocks. Forages methodically through mid-story to canopy foliage. Breeding biology is poorly known but likely involves a cup nest placed in dense foliage, as in related tanagers.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are a series of thin, high-pitched whistles and chips used to keep contact within flocks. Song is simple and sporadic, often interspersed with soft twitters while foraging.
Plumage
Mostly dark bluish-slate with a vivid orange throat and upper breast; wings and tail appear blackish with a bluish sheen. Underparts dark bluish, sometimes slightly paler toward the belly. Plumage is smooth and glossy in good light.
Diet
Takes small fruits and berries and supplements with arthropods gleaned from leaves and twigs. Will hover-glean briefly to pick prey from foliage and occasionally sally short distances after insects. Frequently follows mixed flocks to exploit fruiting trees and disturbed-treefall gaps.
Preferred Environment
Feeds primarily in the mid-story to canopy of humid foothill forest, especially along forest edges, tall secondary growth, and fruiting trees on ridges. Also uses forested ravines where insect activity is high.
