The Golden-hooded Tanager (Tangara larvata) is a neotropical species that inhabits humid forest and forest edges. It belongs to the speciose genus Tangara and is often considered to belong to a superspecies with the Masked Tanager (Tangara nigrocincta) and Blue-necked Tanager (Tangara cyanicollis). Although the Golden-hooded Tanager is listed as a species of Least Concern by the IUCN, there is little or no information on population size and demographics of this bird.
Habitats e distribuição
The Golden-hooded Tanager inhabits tropical and subtropical forests, often favoring the edges of these forests, as well as plantations and gardens with plenty of trees and shrubs. It is commonly found at elevations ranging from sea level up to 1,200 meters. This bird thrives in habitats that offer dense foliage and abundant food sources, including insects and fruit. Geographically, the Golden-hooded Tanager's range extends from southern Mexico through Central America, including Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panama. Its distribution continues into the northern regions of South America, reaching as far as western Colombia and northwestern Ecuador. This widespread distribution reflects the bird's adaptability to various forested landscapes within the tropical and subtropical climate zones of the region.
Comportamentos e reprodução
Golden-hooded Tanagers exhibit a cooperative breeding behavior in which both parents are involved in raising the young. During the breeding season, which typically aligns with the rainy season, males perform elaborate displays to attract females, including singing and fluttering their wings. Once paired, the female builds a cup-shaped nest, often situated in dense foliage or hidden within epiphytes. These tanagers are generally monogamous and form small social groups composed of the breeding pair and sometimes helper individuals, who assist with feeding and protecting the chicks. Clutches usually consist of 2-3 eggs, which are incubated solely by the female. After hatching, both parents participate in feeding the nestlings a diet primarily of fruit and insects. The fledglings leave the nest after about two weeks but continue to receive parental care for some time after.
Dieta
The main diet is fruits and berries, but it consumes insects as well.
Cores
Brightly colored with a bright golden hood (from which it gets its name), turquoise blue wing coverts and rump, and black wings and tail.
Factos divertidos
The Golden-hooded Tanager forages at middle or lower heights in nonforest habitats. To feed on fruit, it hangs on large fruit while removing pieces of it, and when viewed eating berries, they are usually perched on branches or twigs. The Golden-hooded Tanager often forages for arthropods with aerial sallies; the second most frequent substrate for arthropod foraging is bare branches, followed by live leaves and flower buds.
Estado de conservação e esforços
The conservation status of the Golden-hooded Tanager is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List, indicating that it currently faces a relatively low risk of extinction. Its population is considered stable, and it is common within its range, which extends from southern Mexico through Central America to western Ecuador. The primary threats to this species include habitat loss due to deforestation and human encroachment, which impact the integrity of the tropical and subtropical forests it inhabits. Conservation efforts for the Golden-hooded Tanager primarily focus on habitat preservation. Protected areas and national parks within its range play a crucial role in safeguarding suitable habitats. Additionally, NGOs and local communities are increasingly involved in reforestation projects and sustainable land management practices, further contributing to the conservation of this vibrant bird species. Efforts to curb deforestation and promote biodiversity in agricultural landscapes also support the long-term viability of its populations.
