The yellow-scarfed tanager is a species of bird in the family Thraupidae. It is found in forests in the Andean highlands in Peru.
Region
Andes of Peru
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid montane cloud forests, elfin forest, and forest edges on the east slope of the central and southern Peruvian Andes. It favors moss-laden, epiphyte-rich stands with dense understory and nearby bamboo thickets. Birds often use riparian ravines and forest edges where fruiting trees are common. It is typically found in the midstory to canopy and along borders with secondary forest and clearings.
Altitude Range
2200–3600 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This striking Andean tanager is endemic to Peru, where it frequents humid montane forests and forest edges. Its bright yellow 'scarf' across the sides of the neck makes it one of the most easily recognized mountain tanagers. It often travels in mixed-species flocks, moving methodically through mossy midstory and canopy. Despite its bold markings, it can be skulking and is often detected by its thin calls.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief undulations
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups, frequently joining mixed-species flocks that move through the midstory and canopy. Breeding pairs are territorial around nesting sites and both adults participate in feeding young. Nests are typically cup-shaped and placed in dense vegetation.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are thin, high-pitched chips and sibilant whistles, often given as contact notes within flocks. Song is a soft series of clear, slightly descending notes, easily lost in the ambient sounds of cloud forest.
