Chestnut-headed Tanager

Thlypopsis pyrrhocoma

The Chestnut-headed Tanager, *Thlypopsis pyrrhocoma*, is a captivating passerine of the South American Atlantic Forest, renowned for its striking plumage. Measuring around 13 cm (5.1 inches) in length and weighing approximately 14.5 g (0.51 oz), the male boasts a brilliant rufous-chestnut head and neck that contrasts sharply with its olive-yellow back and vibrant yellow underparts. Dusky wings and tail are subtly edged with olive-yellow, complementing its dusky upper bill and paler lower mand...

Habitat

Found primarily in subtropical and tropical moist montane forests, forest borders, and secondary woodlands, often along streams. It typically inhabits elevations between 500-1700 m, occasionally descending to 100 m.

Diet

Primarily insectivorous, gleaning arthropods from foliage and small branches. It supplements its diet with small fruits, especially berries.

Behavior

A diurnal species, the Chestnut-headed Tanager is typically observed actively foraging in the middle to upper strata of trees and shrubs. It is a highly social bird, frequently joining mixed-species flocks, an excellent strategy for enhanced foraging efficiency and predator detection. Its foragin...

Range

The Chestnut-headed Tanager is a resident species, endemic to the southeastern Atlantic Forest region of South America. Its primary breeding and year-round range extends across southeastern Brazil, from southeastern Minas Gerais and EspĂ­rito Santo south through Rio Grande do Sul. It is also found...

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Fun Facts

- Its scientific name, *pyrrhocoma*, translates to 'flame-haired' or 'red-haired', a vivid description of its distinctive head plumage. - Unlike many tanagers, which often have colorful bodies, the Chestnut-headed Tanager's most striking feature is concentrated solely on its head. - It is a quint...

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