The rufous-crested tanager is a species of bird in the family Thraupidae. It is found in Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Venezuela. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist montane forests.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs along the northern and central Andes of Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, and northern Peru. It inhabits subtropical and tropical moist montane cloud forests, often frequenting forest edges and mature secondary growth. The species typically forages in the mid to upper canopy and along mossy limbs. It is a regular participant in mixed-species flocks and is most often detected by movement rather than voice. Local presence tracks intact forest, and it is less common in heavily fragmented habitats.
Altitude Range
1200–3200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This Andean tanager often travels with mixed-species flocks high in the canopy, where its bright rufous crown stands out against dark foliage. The crest can be subtly raised during displays or when alarmed. Pairs maintain small territories within humid montane forests and show modest sexual dimorphism, with females duller than males.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats through canopy gaps
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups that frequently join mixed-species canopy flocks. Nests are likely cup-shaped and placed in shrubs or small trees within dense montane forest. Both parents are presumed to assist in rearing young, as is typical for tanagers.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are soft and understated: thin, sibilant phrases interspersed with sharp chips. Calls include a series of high 'tseet' notes and a scolding chatter given when agitated.
Plumage
Mostly dark slaty-gray with a conspicuous rufous crown/crest; wings and tail are dusky with subtle edging. Females are browner or olive-tinged with a duller, less extensive rufous crown. Underparts are plain with minimal streaking, giving a clean, uniform look.
Diet
Takes small fruits and berries as well as a variety of arthropods gleaned from foliage and bark. Often forages methodically along mossy branches and epiphyte-laden limbs. Will sally short distances to snatch insects flushed by flock mates. Opportunistically visits fruiting trees and follows mixed flocks to exploit disturbed prey.
Preferred Environment
Feeds primarily in the mid to upper canopy of humid cloud forest and at forest edges. Also uses tall secondary growth and forest gaps where fruiting trees are present. Foraging is concentrated along vine tangles, bromeliads, and mossy substrates.
