The Orinoco saltator or Orinocan saltator is a species of saltator in the family Thraupidae. It is found in Venezuela in areas west, north, and upon the Orinoco River region and to the Caribbean coast; also border regions in adjacent northeast Colombia. It can also be found on the eastern shore of Lake Maracaibo. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical dry forests, subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests, and subtropical or tropical dry shrubland.
Region
Northern South America
Typical Environment
Primarily found across northern Venezuela, including the Orinoco River lowlands, the Caribbean coastal belt, and around Lake Maracaibo, with range extending into adjacent northeastern Colombia. It favors dry to moist lowland forests, thorny scrub, gallery woodland, and forest edges. The species is commonly encountered in shrubby pastures, plantations, and along riparian thickets. It tends to remain near dense cover and is more often heard than seen.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A robust, seed- and fruit-eating tanager with a thick, conical bill, the Orinoco saltator often keeps to dense edge vegetation and riverine scrub. Its song is a rich series of mellow whistles, and pairs sometimes duet. It adapts well to human-altered habitats with shrubs and scattered trees.
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, sometimes in small family groups. Territorial during the breeding season, when pairs nest low to mid-level in dense shrubs or small trees. The cup nest holds 2–3 eggs, and both parents participate in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A rich, mellow series of whistled notes and phrases, often delivered from semi-concealed perches. Calls include clear, piping contact notes; pairs may engage in soft duets.
