Tangara cyanocephala
The Red-necked Tanager (*Tangara cyanocephala*) is an exquisitely colored passerine bird, renowned for its dazzling plumage. Males are particularly striking, sporting a vibrant iridescent blue crown, a fiery red nape, and a contrasting black face and throat. Their upperparts are predominantly black with green-edged feathers, while the rump shines emerald green and the underparts transition from pale blue on the breast to whitish on the belly. Measuring approximately 13-14 cm (5.1-5.5 inches) ...
Found primarily in humid evergreen forests, including montane and submontane types, often frequenting forest edges and secondary growth. They typically occur at elevations between 500 and 1500 meters, but can be found from sea level up to 2000 meters.
Their diet consists primarily of small fruits, berries, and arillate seeds, supplemented by a significant intake of insects. They forage by gleaning insects from foliage and twigs, and occasionally by hawking flying insects.
Red-necked Tanagers are diurnal birds, actively foraging throughout the day, often within the mid-to-upper canopy. Outside the breeding season, they frequently join mixed-species flocks, moving in concert with other tanagers, warblers, and small passerines, enhancing their foraging efficiency and...
The Red-necked Tanager is endemic to the Atlantic Forest biome of eastern South America. Its primary distribution spans southeastern Brazil, extending from the states of Ceará and Espírito Santo south through Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Paraná, Santa Catarina, and Rio Grande do Sul. The species' r...
Least Concern
- The Red-necked Tanager is part of the incredibly diverse Tangara genus, which contains over 50 species, many of which are known for their spectacular, iridescent plumage. - Its scientific name, *cyanocephala*, literally means 'blue-headed' in Greek, referring to its striking crown. - Despite it...