The Silver-throated Tanagers (Tangara icterocephala) is a medium-sized passerine bird that is about 13 cm long and weighs 21g. For more information, see our guide on breeding.
The male is mainly yellow, with black streaks down its back, and a whitish throat bordered above with a black malar (cheek) stripe. The wings and tail are black with pale green edgings.
Males and females look alike, but adult females have duller and greener-tinged yellow plumage, and sometimes dark mottling on the crown.
Immatures are much duller and greener, with dusky wings, tail, back streaks and malar (cheek) stripe, a grey throat and darker green wing edging.
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Distribution and Habitat
This tanager is a resident breeder in the highlands from Costa Rica to western Ecuador. Common from about 600 m to 1700 m altitude in the lower and middle levels of wet mountain forests and adjacent semi-open areas like clearings with shade trees, second growth and woodland edges. According to eBird, this species is well documented.
In the heavy rains of the wet season, it will descend to sea level. According to Audubon Society, this species is well documented.
Nesting / Breeding
The compact cup nest is built 1-13 m high in a tree on a branch. The normal clutch is two brown-blotched off-white eggs.
This species will raise two broods in a season Silver-throated Tanagers occur in pairs, small groups, or as part of a mixed-species feeding flock.
Diet
They eat small fruit, usually swallowed whole, insects and spiders.
