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Photo: © Tomaz Melo eBird S153539003 Macaulay Library ML 610630813
blue-dacnis

Blue Dacnis

Dacnis cayana
Dacnis Azul
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Song

Blue Dacnis

Appearance: The Blue Dacnis is easily recognizable by its vibrant blue plumage on the head, back, and wings, with a black face and throat, and a bright turquoise belly. The female is less colorful, with a greenish-blue plumage and a yellow belly.
Habitat: Blue Dacnis are found in the canopy of tropical forests, especially in areas with dense vegetation and abundant fruit trees. They are also known to inhabit forest edges, secondary growth, and plantations.
Behavior: Blue Dacnis are social birds that often form small groups or flocks. They are active and agile, moving quickly through the forest canopy in search of fruit, insects, and nectar. They are known for their acrobatic flight and their melodious song.
Breeding: During the breeding season, male Blue Dacnis perform elaborate courtship displays to attract females. They build cup-shaped nests in trees or shrubs, where the female lays 2-3 eggs. Both parents take turns incubating the eggs and feeding the chicks.
Conservation status: The Blue Dacnis is considered a species of least concern by the IUCN.
MALE
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Photo: © Tomaz Melo eBird S153539003 Macaulay Library ML 610630813
FEMALE
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Photo: © Hank Davis eBird Checklist S32593011 Macaulay Library ML 40174741

Distribution

The Blue Dacnis is found in all regions except in the northern tip of Colombia - Guajira department.

Taxonomy

The Blue Dacnis (Dacnis cayana)
  • Kingdom: Animalia
  • Phylum: Chordata
  • Class: Aves (Birds)
  • Order: Passeriformes
  • Family: Thraupidae
  • Genus: Dacnis 
  • Species: Dacnis cayana

Vocalization

The Blue Dacnis is known for its high-pitched, musical trill that is often described as a series of rapid, clear notes. The vocalization is typically melodic and can vary in pitch and intensity. It is a beautiful and distinctive sound that is often heard in the forests of Central and South America.