Tangara vassorii
The Blue-and-black Tanager (Tangara vassorii) is an avian jewel of the Andean cloud forests, celebrated for its striking, iridescent plumage. Measuring approximately 12.5 to 13.5 cm (5-5.3 inches) in length and weighing between 16 to 21 grams, this species is predominantly deep violet-blue with contrasting areas of velvety black. Its distinctive features include a black face, throat, and back, which transition sharply to brilliant violet-blue on the crown, nape, rump, and underparts, often ac...
This species primarily inhabits humid montane forests, cloud forests, and their edges, particularly thriving in areas with dense epiphyte growth. It is typically found at elevations ranging from 1,500 to 3,000 meters (4,900-9,800 feet) above sea level.
Their diet consists mainly of small fruits, particularly those from Melastomataceae and Cecropia plants, supplemented by a significant intake of small insects and arthropods. They forage by gleaning insects from leaves and twigs and plucking fruits.
Blue-and-black Tanagers are diurnal and highly active, spending their days foraging in the mid-story and canopy of their forest homes. They are frequently observed participating in mixed-species foraging flocks, often with other tanagers, warblers, and small insectivores, benefiting from increase...
The Blue-and-black Tanager is a resident species found exclusively along the Andean cordillera of South America, spanning a significant geographic range. Its distribution extends from extreme western Venezuela, south through the central and western Andes of Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru, reaching a...
Least Concern
- The Blue-and-black Tanager is one of over 270 species in the tanager family (Thraupidae), making it one of the largest bird families in the world. - Despite its striking coloration, it is often difficult to spot in the dense canopy of its cloud forest habitat due to its small size and quick mov...