The yellow-tufted dacnis is a species of bird in the family Thraupidae. It is commonly found typically in pairs throughout western Colombia and Ecuador and the Magdalena and Cauca valleys.
Region
Northern Andes (Colombia and Ecuador)
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid lowland and foothill forests, forest edges, and secondary growth, primarily on the west slope of the Andes and in the Magdalena and Cauca inter-Andean valleys. It favors the canopy and subcanopy, where it forages among foliage and at flowering or fruiting trees. It adapts moderately well to degraded edges and riparian woodlands, provided some tall trees remain. Often recorded in mixed-species flocks moving along forest strata and along ridge or river corridors.
Altitude Range
100–1600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A small canopy tanager of the Northern Andes, the yellow-tufted dacnis is most often seen in pairs or small family groups, frequently joining mixed-species flocks high in the forest. Males display tiny yellow feather tufts on the head/shoulder area, which can be flared during courtship or excitement. It often visits flowering trees for nectar and also gleans small fruits and insects. Ongoing deforestation in inter-Andean valleys makes it local in many areas.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or small groups, often joining mixed-species canopy flocks. Courtship involves quick chases and subtle display of the yellow tufts by the male. Nests are typically small cups placed well above ground in dense foliage of trees or tall shrubs.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are thin, high-pitched twitters and sibilant chips delivered from the canopy. The song is a short series of delicate, buzzy notes interspersed with sharp call notes.
