SWALLOW TANAGER
Tersina viridis
DESCRIPTION
The Swallow Tanager (Tersina viridis) is a strikingly beautiful bird known for its vibrant blue and green plumage. Males are particularly colorful, showcasing a bright blue head and back, with a contrasting greenish-yellow underbelly. This species is often found in pairs or small groups, flitting through the canopy of its forest habitat, where it is known for its acrobatic flight and melodious calls.
FUN FACTS
- Swallow Tanagers are known for their unique feeding behavior, often hanging upside down to reach fruits and insects that are otherwise inaccessible
- This acrobatic skill not only helps them find food but also showcases their agility and adaptability in the wild.| The vibrant coloration of the male Swallow Tanager is not just for show; it plays a crucial role in attracting mates during the breeding season
- The brightness of their plumage can indicate health and vitality, making it an important factor in their reproductive success
QUICK INFO
Lifespan5-10 years in the wild
Average Weight20-30 g
Average Length15-18 cm
Diet TypeOmnivore
Social StructureThey are often seen in pairs or small groups, indicating a social structure that promotes group foraging and protection.
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring to early summer
- Habitat
- Swallow Tanagers inhabit tropical and subtropical forests, often favoring areas with dense foliage. They are typically found in the mid to upper levels of the forest canopy.
- Biomes
- Tropical Rainforest, Subtropical Forest
- Native Range
- The native range of the Swallow Tanager extends from southern Mexico through Central America to parts of South America, including Colombia and Venezuela.
- Continent
- North America, South America
- Countries
- Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Venezuela
- Diet
- Swallow Tanagers primarily feed on fruits, particularly berries, and insects. They are known to forage actively in trees and shrubs, often seen hanging upside down to reach their food.
- Diet Type
- Omnivore
- Favorite Food
- berries, insects
- Social Structure
- They are often seen in pairs or small groups, indicating a social structure that promotes group foraging and protection.
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 2-10
- Territorial
- 0
LC
DD
20-30 g
Weight
15-18 cm
Length
- Coloration
- Bright blue and green plumage with yellow underparts.
- Sexual Dimorphism
- Males are more brightly colored than females.
- Lifespan
- 5-10 years in the wild
- Offspring per Birth
- 2-4
- Sexual Maturity
- 1-2 years
- Breeding Season
- Spring to early summer
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population of Swallow Tanagers is currently stable, with no significant declines reported.
- Wild Population Estimate
- Unknown
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Habitat loss due to deforestation and agricultural expansion poses a threat to their populations. However, they are not currently facing significant threats that would endanger their survival.
- Predators
- Snakes, raptors, and larger birds may prey on Swallow Tanagers, particularly when they are nesting.
- Defense Mechanisms
- They rely on their agility and ability to fly quickly to evade predators.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon