The Sira tanager is a species of bird in the family Thraupidae. It is endemic to Peru and exists only in the Sira range.
Region
Central Peruvian Andes
Typical Environment
Occurs only in the Cerros del Sira massif, where it inhabits humid montane and cloud forests, especially mature, mossy canopy and edges. It uses forest ridges and steep slopes and will visit fruiting trees in natural clearings. The species regularly joins mixed-species flocks, moving through the upper canopy and subcanopy. Habitat loss from deforestation and agriculture at lower elevations threatens available forest, though populations persist in protected areas.
Altitude Range
1200–2200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Sira tanager is a brightly colored forest songbird restricted to the remote Cerros del Sira in central Peru. It favors humid montane cloud forests and often joins mixed-species flocks high in the canopy. Because of its tiny range and ongoing habitat loss, it is considered at risk and benefits from protection within the El Sira Communal Reserve.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often travels in small groups and readily joins mixed-species canopy flocks while foraging. Likely monogamous, building a cup-shaped nest placed on mossy branches typical of montane tanagers. Breeding is presumed to coincide with periods of peak food availability.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives thin, high-pitched chips and short, tinkling phrases typical of canopy tanagers. Vocalizations are used to maintain contact within flocks and during territorial displays.
