The Spangle-cheeked tanager is a striking bird known for its vivid coloring, including an orange belly, cobalt-blue wings, and turquoise spangles. This eye-catching species, found in parts of Costa Rica and Western Panama, captivates birdwatchers with its unique features and fascinating behaviors.
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Male and female Spangle-cheeked tanagers look quite similar, but males have more noticeable blue scaling on their feathers, adding to their appeal. Younger birds share the same look but tend to have a less prominent crown patch and slightly less defined scales.
These tanagers prefer to live high in the forest canopy, particularly in areas rich with epiphytes, at elevations between 1,200 and 3,000 meters (about 3,900 to 9,800 feet). However, they are sometimes seen at lower levels in semi-open spaces, forest edges, or areas of secondary growth.
Their diet mainly consists of fruit, but they eat insects and spiders, usually swallowing their prey whole. During the breeding season, they build cup-shaped nests, often placed in tree forks or on branches covered in epiphytes. The inside of the nest is lined with bromeliad leaves, creating a soft space for their two eggs.
Though visually stunning and limited to specific regions, the Spangle-cheeked tanager is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Nonetheless, it remains a delightful sight for birdwatchers, showcasing the vibrant biodiversity of the forests of Costa Rica and Western Panama.
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