In the vast world of avian wonders, there exists a gem, a living masterpiece of radiant colors – the Spangle-cheeked Tanager. Quite distinct from its counterparts, this stunning bird flaunts an orangey belly, cobalt wings, and a breathtaking adornment of turquoise spangles.
The Spangle-cheeked Tanager, scientifically known as “Tangara dowii,” is a medium-sized passerine bird, measuring around 13 cm (5.1 inches) in length and weighing approximately 20 g (0.71 ounces). Its head is predominantly black, while its breast and upper areas share a similar hue. The bird boasts blue scaling on its breast, sides of the face, and neck, while a rufous crown graces the top of its head. Its wings and tail are elegantly edged in blue, the rump adorned in green, and the belly painted in cinnamon.
What’s fascinating is that males and females bear a striking resemblance, although males tend to sport more extensive blue scaling. Juvenile Spangle-cheeked Tanagers often resemble less vibrant versions of their male counterparts, with no crown patch and less visible scaliness.
Endemic to Costa Rica and Western Panama, these captivating birds are primarily found residing in the canopy, at altitudes ranging from 1,200 to 3,000 m (3,900 to 9,800 ft). They favor lush forests rich with epiphytes but can also be spotted at lower levels in semi-open areas, forest edges, and secondary growth.
Their dietary preferences lean towards fruits, although they occasionally savor insects and spiders, typically swallowing them whole.
In the breeding season, Spangle-cheeked Tanagers construct cup-shaped nests, often perched on tree forks or branches adorned with epiphytes. The interior of these nests is thoughtfully lined with bromeliad leaves, serving as a cradle for the two eggs they lay.
Remarkably, the Spangle-cheeked Tanager holds a status of “Least Concern” on the IUCN Red List, signifying a stable and thriving population.
To witness the sheer beauty of this avian marvel, you can watch the Spangle-cheeked Tanager in action in the video below:
Nature, in its infinite creativity, has crafted this living jewel, a testament to the splendor of the natural world, a Spangle-cheeked Tanager, a true work of art.
“File:Tangara dowii -Costa Rica-8 (1).jpg” by Tim from Ithaca is licensed under CC BY 2.0.
These birds build a cup-shaped nest in the breeding season. This is usually placed on a tree fork or on a branch amongst epiphytes. The interior is lined with bromeliad leaves on which two eggs are laid.
“IMG_3580” by gary_leavens is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.
This bird is regarded as of Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.
“calliste pailleté, spangle-cheeked tanager, tangara caripinta” by Melissa McMasters is licensed under CC BY 4.0.
You can watch this bird right here in the video below:
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