White-lined Tanager

Overview

The Tachyphonus rufus, or white-lined tanager, is a medium-sized passerine bird within the family Thraupidae. It is a resident breeder ranging from Costa Rica south to northern Argentina, including the islands of Trinidad and Tobago.

Identification

• Adult males are glossy black with a long tail and a stout, pointed black bill, featuring conspicuous white underwing coverts and a small white patch on the upperwing.
• Females and immature birds are entirely rufous, appearing somewhat paler on the underparts.
• The song is described as a fast, repetitive cheeru.

Habitat

The species inhabits semi-open areas, including gardens, and acts as a resident breeder from Costa Rica south to northern Argentina, as well as on the islands of Trinidad and Tobago.

Diet

These restless but unwary birds consume a wide variety of fruit, with a particular preference for epiphytes. They also feed on nectar and insects such as beetles, ants, and grasshoppers.

Did you know?

In Trinidad and Tobago, the male is locally known as the 'Parson' while the species is called the 'Singing Angel' due to its high value for whistling ability. The male displays the white spots under his wings by opening and closing them in front of the female during the breeding season.