Flame-crested Tanager
NameFlame-crested Tanager
Common NameFlame-crested Tanager
Scientific NameTachyphonus cristatus
FamilyThraupidae
Wingspan (cm)22
Length (cm)14.5
Weight (g)17
Plumage DetailsMales are predominantly glossy black with a prominent, erectile flame-orange crest and a small white patch on the bend of the wing. Females are duller, olive-brown overall with a rufous-tinged crown.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include sharp 'chip' notes and a rapid, chattering song, often described as a series of 'tsee-tsee-tsee' notes.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in northern South America, including parts of Colombia, Venezuela, the Guianas, Brazil, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia, primarily in the Amazon basin and adjacent foothills.
Identifying Featuresflame-orange crest (male), glossy black plumage (male), white shoulder patch (male), dark bill
Description
The Flame-crested Tanager is a striking medium-sized passerine, with males displaying glossy black plumage and a vibrant flame-orange crest. These birds typically forage in the mid-story and canopy of humid forests, often as part of mixed-species flocks.
