The rufous-bellied mountain tanager or rufous-bellied saltator is a species of songbird in the tanager family Thraupidae and is the only member of the genus Pseudosaltator. It is found in the eastern Andes of southern Bolivia and extreme northern Argentina. It occurs mostly at altitudes from 3000 m to 4000 m. Its habitat is open land, including cultivated land, that has patches of scrub, alder trees, or Polylepis trees. It is threatened by habitat loss.
Region
Central Andes
Typical Environment
Occurs in the eastern Andes of southern Bolivia and extends into extreme northern Argentina (notably Jujuy). It favors open slopes and rural landscapes that retain patches of dense scrub, Polylepis woodlands, and Andean alder (Alnus) stands. Birds use forest edges, hedgerows, and ravines and are tolerant of some cultivation where native shrubs persist. It is typically localized, tracking pockets of suitable high-Andean habitat.
Altitude Range
3000–4000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This Andean songbird is the sole member of the genus Pseudosaltator, having been split from the saltators and placed within the tanager family (Thraupidae). It inhabits high-elevation scrub and Polylepis–alder mosaics, typically between 3000 and 4000 m. It often forages in pairs or small groups and may join mixed-species flocks. Ongoing loss and fragmentation of Polylepis woodlands is a key threat.
Temperament
wary and somewhat secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups, sometimes accompanying mixed-species flocks along scrubby edges. Forages from near-ground level up into mid-shrub layers, moving methodically between bushes. Likely builds a cup nest in dense shrubbery; both parents are presumed to attend young as in many tanagers.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Delivers clear, whistled phrases with a bright, tinkling quality; notes are spaced and musical. Calls include sharp chips and thin seeps used for contact within cover.
