Swallow Tanager
NameSwallow Tanager
Common NameSwallow Tanager
Scientific NameTersina viridis
FamilyThraupidae
Wingspan (cm)27.5
Length (cm)14.75
Weight (g)22.5
Plumage DetailsMales are iridescent turquoise-blue over most of the body, with a prominent black mask covering the face, lores, and ear coverts. The flight feathers and tail are darker, often blackish-blue, with some black barring visible on the back and wings. Females are dull green with a yellowish belly and a less defined, dusky mask.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a soft, high-pitched 'seep' or 'tsip' call, often given in flight or while perched. They also produce a soft, trilling song.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across South America, found from Colombia and Venezuela south through the Amazon basin to Bolivia, Paraguay, and northern Argentina, and east to the Guianas and Brazil. Also present in parts of Central America, specifically eastern Panama.
Identifying FeaturesBrilliant turquoise-blue plumage (male), Distinctive black mask (male), Flattened, broad bill, Aerial sallying behavior for insects, Upright posture when perched, Green plumage (female)
Description
The Swallow Tanager is a strikingly beautiful bird, with males displaying brilliant turquoise-blue plumage and a distinctive black mask. It is known for its unique foraging behavior, often perching conspicuously before making aerial sallies to catch insects in flight.
