Golden-crowned Tanager

Iridosornis rufivertex

A strikingly beautiful passerine, the Golden-crowned Tanager measures approximately 13-15 cm (5.1-5.9 in) in length and weighs around 24-30 grams. Its most distinctive feature is the brilliant golden-orange to yellow crown, framed by a velvety black face and nape. The upperparts, including the back and wings, are a deep, glossy blue-black, often appearing iridescent in good light. The underparts are a contrasting vibrant yellow, fading to olive on the flanks and undertail coverts. A small, po...

Habitat

This species primarily inhabits humid montane forests, cloud forests, and forest edges, often favoring areas with dense undergrowth. It is typically found at elevations ranging from 1,800 to 3,000 meters (5,900-9,800 feet).

Diet

Their diet consists primarily of small fruits, berries, and a variety of insects, with fruits likely dominating their intake. They forage by gleaning and sallying within foliage.

Behavior

Golden-crowned Tanagers are diurnal birds, active from dawn to dusk, often spending much of their time foraging quietly in the dense understory or mid-story of their forest habitat. They primarily forage by gleaning insects and small fruits from foliage and branches, often making short, quick sal...

Range

The Golden-crowned Tanager is endemic to the Andes Mountains of South America, with a disjunct distribution across several countries. Its range extends from the Andes of western Venezuela, through the Sierra de Perijá and the Western, Central, and Eastern Andes of Colombia, continuing south throu...

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Fun Facts

- Despite its brilliant colors, the Golden-crowned Tanager can be surprisingly elusive, often staying hidden in dense foliage. - It belongs to the genus *Iridosornis*, a group often referred to as 'mountain-tanagers' due to their high-elevation habitats. - The golden crown of this species serves ...

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