The scarlet-thighed dacnis is a tanager 4¾" long. It is found in Costa Rica, Colombia, Ecuador and Panama.
Region
Southern Central America and the Chocó bioregion
Typical Environment
Occurs from Costa Rica through Panama into the humid Chocó of western Colombia and northwestern Ecuador. It favors evergreen lowland and foothill rainforests, forest edges, second growth, and shaded plantations such as cacao and coffee. Most activity is in the mid- to upper canopy, but it descends to edges and clearings to feed at fruiting shrubs and flowering trees. It is typically near moist forests, rivers, and foothill slopes with dense vegetation.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The scarlet-thighed dacnis is a small tanager whose males flash vivid scarlet thighs, usually hidden against the body and revealed during display or active foraging. Males are striking turquoise-blue with a black mask and back, while females are greenish and much duller. It often joins mixed-species flocks high in the canopy and frequents flowering and fruiting trees. Despite its bright colors, it can be surprisingly hard to see because it feeds high and moves quickly.
Altos Del Maria, El Valle - Panama
female - Selva Verde Lodge - Costa Rica
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between canopy perches
Social Behavior
Often travels in pairs or small groups and regularly joins mixed-species canopy flocks. Courtship involves the male flicking and spreading to reveal the scarlet thighs. Nests are small cup nests placed well above ground in foliage. Breeding is presumed to be seasonal with peak activity in the wet season, depending on locality.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song and calls are high, thin, and sibilant, including tseet and tsee notes delivered in quick series. Vocalizations are modest in volume but frequent during active foraging. Males give sharper chips during displays and interactions.
