Hemithraupis ruficapilla
The Rufous-headed Tanager (Hemithraupis ruficapilla) is a strikingly small and active songbird endemic to the Atlantic Forest of South America, known for its distinctive coloration and energetic foraging habits. Measuring approximately 13 cm (5 inches) in length and weighing around 12-16 grams, its compact body is adorned with an overall dull olive-green plumage, sharply contrasted by the male's vibrant rufous-orange head and throat, which gives the species its common name. A clean white bell...
Found primarily in the humid lowland and montane Atlantic Forest, ranging from sea level up to approximately 1500 meters, preferring forest edges, clearings, and secondary growth.
Primarily insectivorous, gleaning arthropods from leaves and branches, supplemented by small fruits and occasional nectar.
This diurnal species is remarkably active, often observed gleaning insects from the canopy and mid-story foliage, either solitarily or, more commonly, as an integral member of dynamic mixed-species foraging flocks, particularly during the non-breeding season. Its foraging technique is agile, invo...
The Rufous-headed Tanager is a resident species restricted to the Atlantic Forest region of South America. Its primary range extends across southeastern Brazil, from the state of Bahia south through Espírito Santo, Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Paraná, Santa Catarina, and Rio Grande do Sul. The spec...
Least Concern
- The Rufous-headed Tanager is one of only three species in the genus Hemithraupis, a small group of active, canopy-dwelling tanagers. - Despite its relatively stable population, it is endemic to the highly fragmented and threatened Atlantic Forest biome. - It is a common and often central member...