The red-headed tanager is a medium-sized American songbird in the family Cardinalidae, the cardinals or cardinal grosbeaks, endemic to Mexico. Comprising two subspecies, it is around 15 cm (5.9 in) long. Males have predominantly yellow-olive plumage with a red head and throat and females have yellow forecrowns.
Region
Pacific slope of Mexico
Typical Environment
Endemic to western and southwestern Mexico, primarily along the Pacific slope from at least Sinaloa and Nayarit south through Jalisco, Colima, Michoacán, Guerrero, and into Oaxaca. It favors pine–oak and evergreen montane forests, edges, and mature second growth. The species uses forest edges, riparian corridors, and semi-open woodlands with tall trees for foraging. It is most often encountered in the middle to upper canopy and may persist in selectively logged habitats if large trees remain.
Altitude Range
600–2500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Despite its common name, the red-headed tanager is now placed in the cardinal family (Cardinalidae), not the true tanagers. Males are striking with a red head and throat contrasting with yellow-olive body plumage, while females are more subdued with a yellow forecrown. It often joins mixed-species flocks in the canopy and is largely sedentary within its Mexican range. Two recognized subspecies vary subtly in tone and extent of red.
Temperament
active and canopy-oriented
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between trees
Social Behavior
Often seen alone, in pairs, or loosely associated with mixed-species flocks in the canopy. Monogamous pairs defend small breeding territories and nest high in trees in a cup of fine twigs and fibers. Both parents participate in provisioning nestlings.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A rich, fluid series of warbling phrases reminiscent of other Piranga tanagers, delivered from mid to upper canopy perches. Calls include a sharp pit or chup note and softer contact chips given while foraging.
