Anisognathus lacrymosus
The striking Lacrimose Mountain Tanager (Anisognathus lacrymosus) is a vibrant jewel of the high Andes, instantly recognizable by its vivid plumage and the diagnostic "teardrop" mark below its eye. Averaging 18-19 cm (7-7.5 inches) in length and weighing around 35-45 grams (1.2-1.6 ounces), this medium-sized tanager boasts a predominantly black head and upperparts, sharply contrasted by bright yellow or orange underparts and a conspicuous yellow or orange patch on its shoulder. The species de...
Primarily found in humid montane cloud forests and forest edges, often preferring mossy, epiphyte-laden trees. It thrives at elevations generally between 1,800 to 3,000 meters (5,900 to 9,800 feet) above sea level.
An omnivorous species, its diet primarily consists of insects (gleaned from foliage) and a variety of small to medium-sized fruits and berries.
The Lacrimose Mountain Tanager is a diurnal and active bird, typically observed foraging during daylight hours and roosting communally or solitarily in dense foliage at night. It employs an active foraging strategy, gleaning insects from leaves and branches, and plucking fruits from shrubs and tr...
The Lacrimose Mountain Tanager is a resident species distributed along the Andes mountain range in northwestern South America. Its extensive range stretches from western Venezuela, through the three ranges of Colombia (Western, Central, and Eastern Cordilleras), and south through Ecuador and Peru...
Least Concern
- The "lacrimose" in its name literally means "tearful," referring to the distinctive tear-shaped marking below its eye. - It is one of five species in the genus *Anisognathus*, all known for their striking plumages and high-altitude habitats. - Despite its vibrant colors, its preference for dens...