Diademed Tanager

Stephanophorus diadematus

The Diademed Tanager, Stephanophorus diadematus, is a strikingly beautiful passerine endemic to the Atlantic Forest of southeastern South America. Measuring approximately 17-18 cm (6.7-7.1 inches) in length and weighing 30-40 g (1.1-1.4 oz), this medium-sized bird boasts a vibrant cerulean blue plumage across its head, back, rump, and breast. A prominent field mark is its vivid crimson-red crown patch, often partially concealed, framed by a distinct black mask extending from the lores through...

Habitat

Found primarily in subtropical and tropical moist montane forests, this species also frequents forest edges, secondary growth, and clearings with scattered trees, typically at elevations between 800 and 2100 meters.

Diet

Primarily omnivorous, their diet consists mainly of various fruits (berries, small drupes) and a wide array of insects, including caterpillars, beetles, and ants, obtained by gleaning and hawking.

Behavior

Diademed Tanagers are diurnal birds, actively foraging from dawn till dusk. They are often observed participating in large, mixed-species foraging flocks, especially during the non-breeding season, joining other tanagers, furnariids, and similar insectivorous/frugivorous birds. Foraging involves ...

Range

The Diademed Tanager is a resident species, primarily found in the Atlantic Forest biome of southeastern South America. Its distribution spans southern Brazil, from Minas Gerais and Espírito Santo south through Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Paraná, Santa Catarina, to Rio Grande do Sul. It also occur...

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Fun Facts

- The genus name 'Stephanophorus' is derived from Greek words meaning 'crown-bearer,' directly referencing its striking red crown patch. - It is the sole species in its genus, making it a 'monotypic' genus, highlighting its unique evolutionary history. - The species' common name, 'Diademed Tanage...

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