The tawny-capped euphonia is a species of bird in the family Fringillidae. It is found in Colombia, Costa Rica, and Panama. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest, subtropical or tropical moist montane forest, and heavily degraded former forest.
Region
Central America and the Chocó bioregion
Typical Environment
Occurs from Caribbean and Pacific slopes of Costa Rica through Panama into northwestern Colombia (Chocó and adjacent foothills). Favors moist lowland and foothill forests, forest edges, and tall second growth. Often found along fruiting forest margins, semi-open woodland, and in tangled viney patches. It tolerates degraded habitats if fruiting trees and mistletoes are present.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The tawny-capped euphonia is a small canopy frugivore in the finch family Fringillidae (subfamily Euphoniinae). It plays an important role in dispersing the seeds of mistletoes and other small-berried plants. Males and females look quite different, with the male’s warm tawny crown standing out in the dim forest canopy.
Illustration of a male and female
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups, and often joins mixed-species flocks in the canopy. The cup nest is tucked in dense vines or epiphytes; the female builds the nest and both parents feed the young. Courtship involves perching displays and soft calls near fruiting trees.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of high, tinkling whistles and clear, sweet notes delivered in short phrases. Calls include thin tsip and metallic twink notes, repeated frequently while foraging.
Plumage
Male shows a warm tawny-orange crown contrasting with dark bluish-black head and upperparts and bright yellow underparts; wings lack bars and the bill is short and stout. Female is olive-green above with yellowish underparts and a duller, cinnamon-washed crown, overall much plainer. Both sexes have smooth, close-lying plumage typical of euphonias.
Diet
Primarily eats small fruits and berries, especially mistletoes (Loranthaceae) and other soft, seedy fruits like melastomes and figs. Swallows fruits whole and later regurgitates the seeds, aiding in seed dispersal. Will occasionally take small insects and spiders, especially during breeding to feed nestlings.
Preferred Environment
Forages high in the canopy and at forest edges where fruiting trees and mistletoes are abundant. Also uses semi-open second growth, forest gaps, and plantations with suitable fruit sources.
