The slaty tanager is a species of bird in the family Thraupidae. It is found in Bolivia and Peru. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist montane forests.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs in the humid montane forests (Yungas) of southeastern Peru and western Bolivia. It inhabits primary and secondary cloud forests, forest edges, and canopy gaps with abundant epiphytes and fruiting trees. The species typically forages in the mid to upper strata but descends to edges and along roads or trails. It is most frequently encountered in mixed-species foraging flocks and may use bamboo thickets and mossy ravines.
Altitude Range
1200–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This Andean tanager often joins mixed-species flocks in the mid to upper canopy of cloud forests, making it easier to spot as it moves with other insectivores and frugivores. Males are a uniform slate-gray with a striking orange iris, while females are duller and browner. It is restricted to humid montane forests of Peru and Bolivia, where it favors forest edges and disturbed areas as well as primary forest.
Cloud forest above Cock-of-the-Rock Lodge - Peru
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with direct dashes between canopy perches
Social Behavior
Frequently travels in pairs or small family groups and commonly associates with mixed-species flocks. Nests are placed in forested areas, with both parents likely participating in care. Territoriality is moderate, with more tolerance when following flocks through the canopy.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of soft, thin whistles and short phrases delivered from within the canopy. Calls include sharp chips and chatters used to keep contact within mixed flocks.
Plumage
Male is uniformly slaty-gray with a smooth, matte appearance; female is duller, more brownish-olive with warmer tones below. Both sexes show darker wings and tail with subtle contrast.
Diet
Takes small insects and other arthropods gleaned from leaves and twigs. Also consumes small fruits and berries, especially when insect prey is less abundant. Will occasionally sally short distances to catch aerial prey.
Preferred Environment
Feeds mainly in the mid to upper canopy of humid montane forests and along forest edges. Often forages in mixed-species flocks, moving methodically through foliage and epiphyte-laden branches.
