Peru is a country of great natural beauty, and it is home to an incredible diversity of bird species. For birding and bird photography enthusiasts, Peru offers a unique opportunity to observe and photograph a wide variety of birds, including the endemic tanagers of Peru. In this article, we will explore some of the most interesting and colourful endemic tanagers of Peru and discuss the best places to see and photograph them.
Peru is located in the western part of South America and is known for its diverse landscapes, which range from the Andes mountains to the Amazon rainforest. This diversity of habitats is reflected in the country’s avian fauna, which includes over 1800 bird species, many of which are endemic to Peru.
One of the most interesting groups of birds found in Peru is the tanagers. Tanagers are a diverse family of birds, which are characterized by their bright plumage and active behavior. There are several endemic species of tanagers in Peru, which are found in different parts of the country.
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Golden-backed Mountain-tanager: A High-Altitude Specialist
The golden-backed mountain-tanager (Cnemathraupis aureodorsalis) is a brightly colored bird that is found at high elevations in the Andes mountains of Peru. The male of this species has a distinctive golden-yellow back and a blue-black head, while the female is a greenish-yellow color. The golden-backed mountain-tanager can be found at elevations between 3,000 and 4,200 meters and is typically found in the vicinity of forested areas.
This bird is a high-altitude specialist and is typically seen in the vicinity of the treeline, where it forages for insects, fruits and seeds.
For bird photographers, this species is a real treat. They are active and are known to approach human quite closely, so you will have a chance to take beautiful portraits with a blurred background of Andean mountains.
Yellow-scarfed Tanager: A Brightly Colored Endemic
The yellow-scarfed tanager (Iridosornis reinhardti) is another brightly colored endemic tanager of Peru. This species is found in the Andean forests of Peru and is particularly common in Alto Mayo protection forest. The yellow-scarfed tanager has a distinctive yellow head, back, and breast, and a black mask and tail. The male is brightly colored, while the female is mostly green with yellow on the head and breast.
This bird is an active forager that feeds on fruit and insects and is often seen in mixed-species flocks. Alto Mayo protection forest is one of the best places to see the yellow-scarfed tanager, as it is home to a wide variety of bird species, including many other endemic tanagers.
The yellow-scarfed tanager, like the other tanagers, can be challenging to spot, due to its fast and active behavior, they tend to move quickly through the canopy. However, when spotted they can make for some great bird photography opportunities. They are known to be quite confiding, and tend to approach quite close to human, so you’ll have a good chance to get great shots.
Black-bellied Tanager: A Striking Endemic of the Peruvian Andes
The black-bellied tanager (Ramphocelus melanogaster) is a striking endemic species of the Peruvian Andes. This bird is found in the montane forests of the Andes and is characterized by its bright blue and black plumage. The male of this species has a bright blue head, back and wings, and a black belly, while the female is mostly green with a blue rump and a black belly.
This tanager is an active forager that feeds on fruit and insects and is often seen in mixed-species flocks. They can be found in several river valleys in the foothills of the eastern Andes, in Tingo María, Huánuco.
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Sira Tanager: An Endemic Jewel of the Peruvian Amazon
The Sira tanager (Stilpnia phillipsi) is a beautiful and striking endemic bird found in the Peruvian Amazon. This tanager is known for its distinctive plumage, which features a bright red head and breast, and a black back and wings. The female is mostly green but with a red head and throat.
This bird is found in the western Amazonian region, particularly in the Sira Communal Reserve, a protected area located in the western part of the Ucayali region in Peru. Sira tanager is a resident species that can be found in the primary and secondary forests, as well as along rivers and streams. It is an active bird that feeds on fruits, insects, and nectar, and is often seen in mixed-species flocks.
The Sira Communal Reserve is one of the best places to see the Sira tanager, as it is a great location to find this bird in large numbers. Although they are active and fast-moving, they are not particularly shy and can be easily approached, making them great subjects for bird photography.
In conclusion, the Sira tanager is a unique and beautiful endemic species of the Peruvian Amazon and a must-see for birding and bird photography enthusiasts. Its striking plumage and active behavior make it a particularly fascinating subject for those interested in capturing images of the diverse birdlife of Peru.
Overall, Peru offers birding and bird photography enthusiasts the opportunity to observe and photograph some of the most beautiful and colourful birds in the world, including the endemic tanagers. With a wide variety of habitats and bird species, Peru is a true birding paradise and a must-visit destination for any birding enthusiast.
Colourful Birding invites you to discover beautiful bird gardens that can be visited and that create a space of protection for many animal species. Do not hesitate to contact us if you require further information about our bird photography travels.
