Thraupis sayaca
The Sayaca Tanager (Thraupis sayaca) is a widely distributed and highly adaptable medium-sized songbird, typically measuring 16-17 cm (6.3-6.7 inches) in length and weighing between 30-40 grams (1.1-1.4 ounces). Its plumage is characterized by a soft, pale blue-gray body, with the wings and tail showcasing a distinctive, often iridescent greenish-blue hue, particularly striking in good light. Useful field marks include a relatively stout, conical bill and a subtle, darker wash around the lore...
Primarily inhabits open woodlands, savannas, parks, gardens, and urban environments across South America, typically found from sea level up to 2,500 meters (8,200 feet) in elevation.
Omnivorous, consuming a diverse diet mainly consisting of fruits and insects, supplemented by nectar. Forages by gleaning from leaves, plucking from branches, and occasionally hovering at flowers.
Sayaca Tanagers are diurnal and active birds, often observed foraging in pairs or small family groups, occasionally joining mixed-species flocks outside the breeding season. They exhibit highly adaptable foraging strategies, gleaning insects from foliage, plucking a wide variety of fruits from tr...
The Sayaca Tanager boasts an extensive distribution across a significant portion of South America. Its breeding range encompasses eastern and central Brazil, Bolivia, Paraguay, Uruguay, and northeastern Argentina, extending west into the Andean foothills of southeastern Peru and eastern Ecuador. ...
Least Concern
- The Sayaca Tanager is one of the most common and widespread tanager species throughout South America, often thriving in urbanized areas. - Its scientific name, *Thraupis sayaca*, is derived from the Guaranà word 'sayacá', a local term used for certain tanager species. - Despite the 'blue' in ma...