Parlotero Crestado
Flame-crested Tanager
Loriotus cristatus
Song
Flame-crested Tanager
Appearance: The Flame-crested Tanager is known for its vibrant plumage. Males have a striking black body contrasted with a bright orange or flame-colored crest on their head, which gives the species its name. Females, on the other hand, are duller, with olive or brownish tones and a less conspicuous crest. Both sexes have a short tail and a strong, conical bill.
Habitat: This species is commonly found in humid tropical and subtropical forests. It prefers the mid to upper levels of the forest canopy but can also be seen at forest edges and in secondary growth. In Colombia, the Flame-crested Tanager inhabits lowland and foothill forests on both the Pacific and Amazonian slopes, as well as in the Magdalena Valley.
Behavior: Flame-crested Tanagers are social birds often seen in pairs or small groups. They are active foragers, feeding on fruits, berries, and insects. Their foraging behavior typically involves moving through the foliage and branches in search of food. These tanagers are also known to participate in mixed-species flocks, which can enhance their foraging efficiency and provide protection from predators.
Breeding: The breeding habits of the Flame-crested Tanager are not extensively documented, but, like many tanagers, they are presumed to be monogamous. They build cup-shaped nests in trees or shrubs, where the female lays and incubates eggs. Both parents are involved in feeding and caring for the young once they hatch.
Conservation Status: The Flame-crested Tanager is not considered to be at significant risk. It is classified as Least Concern by IUCN.
MALE
FEMALE
Distribution
Amazon Region: This includes areas such as the departments of Amazonas, Caquetá, Vaupés, and, Putumayo, where the vast expanses of tropical rainforest provide adequate habitats for this species.
Orinoco Region: This includes parts of the departments of Vichada, and Guanía characterized by a mix of forest and savanna landscapes.
Andean Foothills: The eastern slopes of the Andes, particularly in the departments of Huila and Caquetá, where the forested areas transition into the Amazon basin.
The Flame-crested Tanager is more common in the lowland and foothill regions, avoiding the higher altitudes of the Andes. Its presence is closely tied to areas with dense vegetation and a good supply of fruits and insects, which make up its diet.
Taxonomy
The Flame-crested Tanager (Loriotus cristatus)
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves (Birds)
- Order: Passeriformes
- Family: Thraupidae
- Genus: Loriotus
- Species: Loriotus cristatus
Vocalization
Song: Male Flame-crested Tanagers, like many other birds use songs to establish and defend their territory. These songs can serve as a warning to other males to stay away and as an invitation to potential mates.
Calls: Both males and females may use calls for communication. These can include alarm calls to warn of predators, contact calls to keep in touch with flock members, or calls used during foraging.
Social Interaction: Vocalizations can also play a role in social interactions within a species, helping to establish social bonds and hierarchies.
