Parlotero Aliblanco
White-shouldered Tanager
Loriotus luctuosus
Song
White-shouldered Tanager
Appearance: The male White-shouldered Tanager is predominantly black with a distinctive white patch on each shoulder, which gives the species its name. The contrast between the black body and white shoulders is quite striking. Females are more subdued in color, displaying olive-brown plumage with less conspicuous white shoulder patches compared to males. They are small birds, generally measuring around 14 cm (5.5 inches) in length.
Habitat: White-shouldered Tanagers inhabit a variety of forested environments, including lowland and foothill forests, secondary growth, and forest edges. They are often found in humid tropical and subtropical regions. In Colombia, they are commonly found in lowland and foothill areas on both the Pacific and Caribbean slopes, as well as in the Andean foothills.
Behavior: These tanagers primarily feed on insects and other arthropods, which they often forage for in pairs or small groups. They may also consume some fruit. They are known to be relatively social birds, often seen in mixed-species flocks. Their calls are typically sharp and metallic, which can be used to identify them in their natural habitat.
Breeding: The breeding season for White-shouldered Tanagers varies depending on the region, but generally occurs during the wet season when food is abundant. Nests are usually built in trees or shrubs, constructed from twigs and plant fibers. The female typically lays a clutch of two to three eggs.
Conservation Status: The White-shouldered Tanager is currently listed as a species of Least Concern by the IUCN.
MALE
FEMALE
Distribution
Amazon Basin: The species is present in the Amazonian lowlands, where it inhabits humid forests. Also, in the Orinoco region of Vichada and Guainía.
Andean Foothills: It can be found in the foothills of the Andes, particularly in areas with dense vegetation.
Pacific Region: The white-shouldered tanager is also found in the humid forests of the Pacific lowlands, which provide suitable habitat conditions.
The bird prefers forest edges, secondary growth, and areas with dense shrubbery, where it can find food and shelter. Its presence in these regions indicates its adaptability to different forest types, although it generally favors humid and semi-open areas.
Taxonomy
The White-shouldered Tanager (Loriotus luctuosus)
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves (Birds)
- Order: Passeriformes
- Family: Thraupidae
- Genus: Loriotus
- Species: Loriotus luctuosus
Vocalization
The White-shouldered Tanager's vocalization is a series of high-pitched, whistling notes that are often described as sweet and melodic. They are known for their song-like calls that they use to communicate with each other and defend their territory. Their vocalizations can be heard throughout their range, especially during the breeding season.
