The white-bellied tanager is a medium-sized passerine bird in the tanager family Thraupidae. It is a resident bird of the Atlantic Forest of eastern Brazil. It is restricted to areas with humid forest. It was formerly considered as a subspecies of the turquoise tanager.
Region
Atlantic Forest, eastern Brazil
Typical Environment
Found in humid lowland and foothill forests, especially along forest edges, secondary growth, and riverine woodlands. It frequents the midstory and canopy, often following fruiting trees and joining mixed flocks. The species also tolerates lightly disturbed habitats, including shaded plantations and large urban parks near forest. It is generally resident throughout its range and occurs patchily where suitable forest persists.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This species was recently elevated from a subspecies of the Turquoise Tanager to full species based on plumage and vocal differences. It is a key participant in mixed-species flocks, helping track insect flushes and fruiting trees in the Atlantic Forest. By consuming and dispersing small fruits, it contributes to forest regeneration, including in shade-grown agroforestry like cacao.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often travels in pairs or small family groups and readily joins mixed-species flocks in the canopy and edges. Builds a small cup nest placed in dense foliage, with both parents involved in care. Likely forms stable pair bonds during the breeding season.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a soft, hurried series of thin, sibilant notes and twitters delivered from mid-canopy perches. Calls include sharp chips and thin tseet notes used to keep contact within flocks.
