The yellow-bellied dacnis is a species of bird in the family Thraupidae, the Tanagers. It is found in Amazonian regions of Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia and Brazil; also the eastern Orinoco River region of Venezuela. Its natural habitat is the canopy of tropical humid lowland forest.
Region
Amazon and Orinoco basins of northern South America
Typical Environment
Occurs in the lowland humid forests of Colombia, Venezuela (eastern Orinoco region), Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, and much of Amazonian Brazil. Prefers the canopy and forest edges of terra firme and seasonally flooded várzea forests. Frequently uses river islands, secondary growth, and tall riparian woodland where fruiting trees and flowering shrubs are abundant. It is most often detected in the upper strata but will descend to midstory at forest edges. Human-altered mosaics with tall secondary trees can also support local populations.
Altitude Range
0–1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The yellow-bellied dacnis is a small canopy tanager that often joins mixed-species flocks high in Amazonian lowland forest. Males show striking contrast between bright yellow underparts and blue-green upperparts with dark mask, while females are greener and duller. It is agile and fast-moving, gleaning insects and small fruits among foliage and at forest edges. Its presence is a good indicator of intact humid lowland forest and riverine habitats.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Commonly travels in pairs or small groups and readily joins mixed-species canopy flocks. Nests are small cups placed high in the canopy or tall shrubs, with both parents involved in care. Territoriality is modest, with foraging ranges overlapping at fruiting trees.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Voice consists of high, thin chips and short twitters given while foraging. Song is a quick series of squeaky, sibilant notes and trills that can be hard to localize in the canopy.
