Tangara dowii
The Spangle-cheeked Tanager, *Tangara dowii*, is a jewel of the Neotropics, renowned for its dazzling, intricate plumage. This medium-sized tanager measures approximately 13-14 cm (5.1-5.5 in) in length and weighs around 18-20 g (0.6-0.7 oz). Its most striking feature, giving the species its common name, is the iridescent blue-green spangling on its cheeks, contrasting sharply with a black face mask and throat. The crown is a rich cerulean blue, fading to a scaly blackish-blue on the back, wh...
This species primarily inhabits humid montane and cloud forests, favoring forest edges, clearings with scattered trees, and secondary growth from elevations of about 700 meters up to 2,500 meters.
Their diet consists mainly of small fruits, particularly berries from genera like *Miconia* and *Cecropia*, supplemented by a significant intake of small insects and arthropods gleaned from foliage.
Spangle-cheeked Tanagers are diurnal and highly active, often observed foraging in the upper and mid-story of their forest habitats. They frequently join mixed-species foraging flocks, moving rapidly through the canopy, where they appear to act as nuclear species, attracting other insectivores. T...
The Spangle-cheeked Tanager is a resident species found exclusively in the highlands of Central America. Its distribution extends from north-central Nicaragua, through Costa Rica, and into western Panama. Within this range, it is primarily restricted to montane forests, typically found at elevati...
Least Concern
- The 'Spangle-cheeked' name refers to the distinctive iridescent, scale-like blue markings on its face. - It is a 'nuclear species' in mixed-species foraging flocks, meaning other birds often follow its movements, benefiting from its insect-finding abilities. - Despite its vibrant coloration, it...