The slaty-backed hemispingus is a species of bird in the family Thraupidae that is endemic to Venezuela.
Region
Venezuelan Andes
Typical Environment
Found in humid montane and cloud forests, especially along forest edges, gaps, and in dense understory. It frequents thickets and bamboo (including Chusquea) and often forages in the mid-story with mixed-species flocks. The species tolerates some secondary growth but declines where forests are heavily fragmented. It is most numerous in intact, mossy cloud forest with abundant epiphytes and shrubby layers.
Altitude Range
1500–3200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The slaty-backed hemispingus is a Venezuelan Andean tanager that often joins mixed-species flocks, moving quickly through the mid-story of cloud forests. It has undergone recent taxonomic changes and is frequently placed in Poospiza rather than Hemispingus. Habitat loss and fragmentation in the Venezuelan Andes are the main concerns for this localized species.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Commonly participates in mixed-species flocks, moving through dense foliage in pairs or small groups. Pairs defend small breeding territories within suitable forest patches. Nests are typically placed in shrubs or low trees within dense understory.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a brief, thin warble interspersed with high, sibilant notes. Calls are sharp, high-pitched chips used to keep contact while moving through cover.
Plumage
Mostly slaty-gray upperparts with a darker head and cleaner gray back; underparts dull gray to grayish-olive with subtle warmer tones on the flanks. Often shows a faint pale supercilium and dusky mask; wings and tail darker with minimal contrast. Feathers appear smooth and sleek rather than heavily streaked.
Diet
Takes small insects and other arthropods by gleaning from leaves and twigs. Also consumes small berries and soft fruits, particularly when insect prey is less abundant. Foraging is methodical but quick, often within mixed flocks that flush additional prey.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in the mid-story and dense understory of cloud forests, edges, and thickets. Frequently uses bamboo clumps and vine tangles for cover while foraging.
