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Photo: © Eduardo Lago V.
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 Guira Tanager

Hemithraupis guira
Pintasilgo Güira
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Song

 Guira Tanager

Appearance:  The Guira Tanager has a colorful plumage. Males and females exhibit sexual dimorphism, meaning they have different appearances. Males have a bright yellow body with a contrasting black head and throat. Their wings and tail are black, with some white or yellow markings. Females are less vibrant than males, with more olive or duller yellow coloring. They lack the black head and throat seen in males, and their overall appearance is more subdued.
Habitat: The Guira Tanager is found in a variety of forested habitats. They are commonly found in the canopy and edges of subtropical wooded forests. They can also adapt to plantation areas that have been disturbed or are regenerating like  secondary forests. They are found from sea level up to about 1500 m (4900 ft).
Breeding: They build cup-shaped nests,  placed in trees or shrubs. The nests are often constructed using plant fibers and other natural materials. The clutch size is about 2 to 3 eggs, which are incubated by the female. Both parents are involved in feeding and caring for the chicks once they hatch.
Conservation status: The Guira Tanager is not considered to be at significant risk and this species is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List.
MALE
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Photo: © Eduardo Lago V.
FEMALE
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Photo: © Eduardo Lago V.

Distribution

The Guira Tanager: While a lowland species, the Guira Tanager can also be found in the foothills of the Andes, particularly on the eastern slopes. This area provides a transition zone between lowland and montane forests. Also, in Chocó, Antioquia, Santander, and southern Nariño.

Taxonomy

The Guira Tanager (Hemithraupis guira)
  • Kingdom: Animalia
  • Phylum: Chordata
  • Class: Aves (Birds)
  • Order: Passeriformes
  • Family: Thraupidae
  • Genus: Hemithraupis
  • Species: Hemithraupis guira

Vocalization

The Guira Tanager is known for its loud and melodious song, which is often described as a series of high-pitched whistles and trills. It can also produce a variety of other vocalizations, including chattering calls and sharp, metallic notes.