Black-and-white Tanagers (Conothraupis speculigera)

The Black-and-white Tanager (Conothraupis speculigera) is a South American tanager that occurs naturally Ecuador, Peru and the Brazilian state of Acre. It inhabits scrub, woodland and forest borders at elevation of 100-1800 m. (330-5900 ft).

This species is generally uncommon to rare. The only other member of its genus is the recently rediscovered Cone-billed Tanager.

These birds are usually seen singly or in pairs, but occasionally also occur in flocks of up to 50 individuals.

Description

The Black-and-white Tanager measures about 16 cm. (6½ in) in length and weighs 23-28 g. (0,8-1 oz). They have reddish eyes and a greyish bill.

The male is mostly black with a grey rump, white underparts and a white wing-speculum (= distinctive wing patch) .

The female is olive with faintly mottled, yellow-tinged underparts.

Similar Species:

It resembles the Black-and-white Seedeater; except for a shorter bill. The Black-and-white Tanager lacks the black flanks and chalk-white bill of the related Cone-billed Tanager.

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Song / Vocalizations

The males’ song has been described as a distinctive, blackbird-like, loud and ringing.

Breeding / Nesting

In the northern part of its range it breeds during the wet season, after which it disperses.

The average nest consists of 2 – 3 brown-blotched pale blue eggs that are placed in a low, untidy nest (Greeney et al, 2006).

Diet / Feeding

They mostly feed on insects and seeds.

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