Yellow-backed Tanager
NameYellow-backed Tanager
Common NameYellow-backed Tanager
Scientific NameHemithraupis flavicollis
FamilyThraupidae
Wingspan (cm)16.5
Length (cm)12.5
Weight (g)12.5
Plumage DetailsMales have a glossy black head, back, and wings, with a prominent bright yellow throat and collar extending to the sides of the neck. The underparts are white, and there is a distinctive yellow patch on the lower back/rump and a small white patch on the wing. Females are duller, with olive-green upperparts and yellow underparts.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations typically consist of high-pitched, thin 'seet' or 'tsip' notes, often given in a rapid series.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across much of South America, found in countries including Colombia, Venezuela, the Guianas, Brazil, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia.
Identifying FeaturesBright yellow throat and collar, Glossy black head and back (male), White underparts, Yellow patch on lower back/rump, Small white wing patch
Description
The Yellow-backed Tanager is a small, active songbird known for its striking plumage. Males feature a glossy black head and back contrasted with a vibrant yellow throat and collar, and white underparts. It typically forages for insects and fruits in the canopy and mid-story of humid forests.
