The Silver-throated Tanager (Tangara icterocephala) found in Central and South America's humid forests; characterized by its silver-colored throat. Small tanager, overall lemon-yellow but not super bright; usually looks a bit dirty. Distinctive silvery throat; also note green edges on wing feathers and black streaks on back. Sexes similar; females a bit duller than males. Common and active; usually found in pairs or small flocks, sometimes with larger mixed feeding flocks. Tends to be found in more open areas such as forest edges or gardens, but also in forest canopy. Feeds on fruit.
Habitats e distribuição
The Silver-throated Tanager (Tangara icterocephala) primarily inhabits the lowland and foothill forests of Central and South America. It thrives in humid tropical and subtropical zones, often found at elevations ranging from 500 to 1,800 meters. The bird favors secondary forests and forest edges, where it can often be spotted among the dense foliage and in areas with abundant fruiting trees. Geographically, this species is distributed across parts of Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, and Ecuador. It tends to frequent regions with rich biodiversity and a stable supply of food resources, particularly in the western Andes and along the Pacific slopes. The dense canopy and understory of these forests provide an ideal environment for foraging and nesting.
Comportamentos e reprodução
The Silver-throated Tanager engages in monogamous pair bonding during the breeding season, which typically occurs from March to June. Both the male and female participate in nest-building, creating a cup-shaped structure with moss, grass, and leaves in a tree or shrub. Once the nest is completed, the female lays 2-3 eggs, which she incubates for about 13 days while the male provides food and protection. Socially, these tanagers often form small flocks outside the breeding season, sometimes joining mixed-species groups to forage for insects and fruit. Their cooperative nature in foraging can enhance food-finding efficiency and offer additional protection from predators. A unique aspect of their reproductive strategy includes both parents' active involvement in feeding and caring for the fledglings, ensuring higher survival rates for their offspring.
Dieta
Mainly fruit, but also insects and nectar.
Cores
Bright yellow with a silver throat
Factos divertidos
Part of the diverse and colorful tanager family.
Estado de conservação e esforços
The Silver-throated Tanager (Tangara icterocephala) is currently listed as a species of Least Concern by the IUCN. Its population is considered stable despite facing threats from habitat loss and degradation, primarily due to deforestation for agriculture, logging, and human settlement expansion. Although specific population numbers are not well-documented, the species' wide range across the humid forests of Central and South America provides some resilience against localized threats. Conservation efforts for the Silver-throated Tanager include habitat protection through the establishment of protected areas and nature reserves, particularly in regions like Costa Rica and Panama where the species is commonly found. Environmental organizations also engage in reforestation projects, aiming to restore and connect fragmented habitats. Additionally, community-based conservation initiatives promote sustainable land-use practices that benefit both local biodiversity and human livelihoods.
Galeria
