In the lush landscapes of the Andes Mountains in South America, a stunning avian beauty known as the green-edged tanager, or scientifically, Tangara cyanoventris, graces the skies. Its distinct blue-green plumage, glistening like a jewel in the sunlight, makes it a charismatic presence in the bird kingdom.
The green-edged tanager, a member of the passerine family, is a diminutive creature, measuring approximately 12 cm in length and weighing a mere 11 grams. What sets this species apart is the striking disparity in feather colors between males and females. The male boasts a resplendent blue-green crown and back, adorned with a golden patch on its back and yellow underparts. In contrast, the female, though equally enchanting, sports a more subdued appearance, featuring a greenish-blue head and back, yellow underparts, and lacking the golden patch.
This tanager is renowned for its preference for high altitudes, often found gracing the canopy of damp forests and cloud forests. There, it forages for sustenance among the uppermost branches, indulging in a diet consisting of fruits, seeds, and insects.
The months spanning from February to June mark the breeding season for the green-edged tanager. During this period, the males engage in delightful courtship performances to woo their female counterparts. To construct their nests, they utilize an array of natural materials such as twigs and grasses. It is within these nests that the females lay their precious cargo of two to three eggs.
Regrettably, the green-edged tanager faces imminent threats, primarily stemming from habitat loss and fragmentation due to logging activities. Recognizing the gravity of this situation, the international community has taken steps to safeguard this species. The bird finds itself listed under Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), ensuring its protection. Furthermore, it has been classified as a species of “near threatened” status by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), underscoring the urgency of conservation efforts.
The resplendent green-edged tanager is a testament to the awe-inspiring diversity of South American avifauna. Its magnificent blue-green plumage and its preference for lofty abodes make it a truly captivating sight. However, with its habitat under threat, it is crucial that we take proactive measures to preserve its natural environment before it’s too late.
