The yellow-green grosbeak is a species of grosbeak in the family Cardinalidae.
Region
Amazon Basin and the Guianas
Typical Environment
Found in humid lowland rainforests across northern South America, including terra firme and seasonally flooded várzea forests. It favors forest edges, secondary growth, and fruiting trees, most often in the midstory to canopy. The species also occurs in the Guianan Shield forests and along major river systems. It is generally uncommon to fairly common where suitable habitat persists.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The yellow-green grosbeak is a stout-billed neotropical songbird in the Cardinalidae family, often traveling with mixed-species flocks in the forest midstory and canopy. Its powerful conical bill lets it crack hard seeds and take a variety of fruits. The species epithet 'canadensis' is a historical misnomer—despite the name, it is native to tropical South America.
Temperament
quiet and somewhat shy
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between forest gaps
Social Behavior
Often seen in pairs or small family groups and regularly joins mixed-species flocks while foraging. Nests are cup-shaped and placed in dense vegetation, with both parents typically involved in care. Territoriality is moderate, with soft contact calls used to stay in touch within foliage.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of clear, mellow whistles and short warbled phrases delivered from mid-canopy perches. Calls include sharp tik or pik notes used during flocking and foraging.
