Rufous-crested Tanager
NameRufous-crested Tanager
Common NameRufous-crested Tanager
Scientific NameTachyphonus rufus
FamilyThraupidae
Wingspan (cm)28
Length (cm)18.5
Weight (g)35
Plumage DetailsMales are entirely glossy black with a concealed rufous-orange crest. Females, as pictured, have a dark grey head, dark lores, and a dark eye, contrasting with bright rufous-orange underparts. Their back, wings, and tail are dark greyish-brown.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of sharp, clear 'chip' notes, often given rapidly, and a chattering or sputtering call.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in Central and South America, ranging from Costa Rica south through Panama, Colombia, Venezuela, the Guianas, Ecuador, Peru, northern Bolivia, and southeastern Brazil.
Identifying FeaturesStrong sexual dimorphism (all black male with hidden rufous crest; grey-headed, rufous-breasted female), Medium-sized tanager with a conical bill, Often found in the understory of forests and disturbed areas
Description
This medium-sized tanager exhibits strong sexual dimorphism. Males are entirely glossy black with a hidden rufous crest, while females have a distinctive grey head and rufous-orange underparts. They typically forage in the understory and mid-story of various forest types.
