Stilpnia larvata
The Golden-hooded Tanager, *Stilpnia larvata*, is an exquisitely colored neotropical passerine renowned for its striking plumage. Measuring approximately 13 cm (5.1 inches) in length and weighing around 18 grams (0.6 oz), this small bird boasts an unmistakable golden-yellow hood that covers its crown, nape, and sides of the head. This vibrant coloration is sharply contrasted by a velvety black mask extending from the lores to the ear coverts and a black throat and upper back. Its lower back, ...
Found primarily in humid evergreen forests, forest edges, clearings with scattered trees, and secondary growth. It occurs from lowlands up to elevations of about 1500 meters (4,900 feet).
Feeds mainly on insects, including beetles, caterpillars, and ants, along with small fruits, especially berries. It employs gleaning for insects and plucking for fruit, occasionally hawking insects in flight.
Golden-hooded Tanagers are diurnal and highly active birds, frequently observed gleaning insects and fruit from the foliage of the upper and mid-canopy. They are predominantly social, often joining mixed-species foraging flocks, particularly with other tanagers and euphonias, which helps in preda...
The Golden-hooded Tanager exhibits a broad distribution across Central and northwestern South America. Its northernmost extent includes southern Mexico, specifically the humid lowlands and foothills of Oaxaca and Chiapas, extending southward through all of Central America, encompassing Belize, Gu...
Least Concern
- The Golden-hooded Tanager's genus name, *Stilpnia*, comes from the Greek word 'stilpnos' meaning 'shining' or 'gleaming', aptly describing its vibrant plumage. - Its common name, 'Golden-hooded,' perfectly describes its most distinctive feature, making it easily identifiable even by novice bird...