Silver-beaked Tanager
NameSilver-beaked Tanager
Common NameSilver-beaked Tanager
Scientific NameRamphocelus carbo
FamilyThraupidae
Wingspan (cm)22.5
Length (cm)18
Weight (g)31.5
Plumage DetailsMales have a bright crimson-red head and throat, with the rest of the body, including the back, wings, and tail, being a deep sooty-black or dark maroon. The most distinctive feature is the lower mandible of the bill, which is a striking silvery-white, contrasting with the dark upper mandible. Females are generally duller, often brownish with a reddish wash.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of sharp, high-pitched 'chip' notes, often forming a chattering or squeaky song. They also produce various calls described as 'tseet' or 'tsip'.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread in northern South America, including eastern Colombia, Venezuela, the Guianas, Brazil, eastern Ecuador, eastern Peru, and northern Bolivia.
Identifying FeaturesBright crimson-red head and throat (male), Dark sooty-black body, Distinctive silvery-white lower mandible, Dark upper mandible
Description
The Silver-beaked Tanager is a medium-sized, striking bird known for its deep crimson-red head and throat contrasting with a dark body. Males are particularly vibrant, often seen foraging for fruits and insects in pairs or small groups in tropical lowlands.
