The sayaca tanager is a species of bird in the family Thraupidae, the tanagers. It is a common resident in northeastern, central, and southeastern Brazil, and Bolivia, Paraguay, Uruguay, and northeastern Argentina. A few are recorded from far southeastern Peru, but its status there is unclear, in part due to the potential of confusion with the very similar juveniles of the blue-grey tanager.
Region
Eastern and south-central South America
Typical Environment
Common from northeastern, central, and southeastern Brazil south into Bolivia, Paraguay, Uruguay, and northeastern Argentina, with occasional records in far southeastern Peru. Occupies open woodlands, forest edges, cerrado, caatinga margins, second growth, plantations, and urban parks and gardens. Readily adapts to disturbed habitats and suburbs. Often occurs near watercourses and in mosaic agricultural landscapes. In cities it is a familiar garden bird that benefits from ornamental fruit trees and feeders.
Altitude Range
0–2000 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
A very adaptable tanager that thrives in human-modified landscapes, often visiting backyard fruit feeders. It can be confused with the blue-grey tanager, especially when young, but lacks strong wingbars and is generally paler and more uniform. Frequently joins mixed-species flocks while foraging. Its presence has expanded with urban gardens and plantations.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually in pairs or small groups, and frequently associates with mixed-species flocks. Builds a cup-shaped nest of plant fibers placed in trees or shrubs; pairs are generally monogamous. Both adults participate in parental care, especially feeding young. Comfortable in urban settings where it often forages near people.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of thin, squeaky, slightly nasal phrases, delivered in short bursts. Calls include sharp chips and twitters used during foraging and contact. Vocalizations are persistent but not loud, often heard in gardens and park edges.
