If you’re a birder with a love for color and adventure, tanagers should be at the top of your must-see list.
These stunning birds, with their brilliant and vibrant plumage, are like nature’s little rainbows, each species offering a unique splash of color.
Whether you’re exploring the forests of Central America or the cloud forests of South America, tanagers are there, adding a burst of beauty to your birdwatching experience.
From the fiery red of the Scarlet Tanager to the vibrant mix of hues found in the Paradise Tanager, there’s a rainbow of species to spot.
Get ready to discover some of the most breathtaking and colorful birds in the world!
1. Scarlet Tanager
The Scarlet Tanager is undoubtedly one of the most iconic tanagers out there, and any birder who spots one will never forget the experience.
Known for its vibrant red body and stark black wings, this bird is easy to recognize. Seeing one is like spotting a little firecracker in the trees!
Found primarily in North and Central America, the Scarlet Tanager is a summer resident in the eastern U.S., migrating south to Central America during the winter months.
These birds are like nature’s secret agents, always lurking in the canopy and making you work a little harder for the thrill of the catch! While they may be tough to find, the sight of that brilliant red flash against the green leaves makes it all worthwhile.
Their song is a soft, sweet warble, adding to their charm. If you’re a birder with a love for striking colors, this is one you won’t want to miss!
2. Summer Tanager
Imagine walking through the woods on a warm summer day, and suddenly, you spot a bird so bright, it looks like it’s glowing in the sunlight!
With its brilliant red plumage, this tanager is often confused with the Scarlet Tanager, but what sets it apart is its entirely red body. Unlike other red-colored birds that might have dark wings, the Summer Tanager’s color is consistent all over.
These beauties live across the southern U.S. and Mexico, migrating down to Central America for the winter.
While they tend to stay high in the canopy, their sweet, melodic song is often what tips off a birder to their presence.
For those who enjoy birding in warmer climates, spotting the Summer Tanager is like finding a hidden gem among the leaves. Just be sure to wear sunglasses, you might need them with all that bright red!
3. Golden Tanager
With its rich golden-yellow hues, the Golden Tanager is one of the most dazzling members of the tanager family. Its a favorite among birdwatchers who are lucky enough to visit these lush, high-altitude areas.
The Golden Tanager’s bright feathers can sometimes be difficult to spot in the dense foliage, but when it does make an appearance, it’s a jaw-dropping sight.
These birds are often seen in small flocks, adding an extra splash of color to the already vibrant rainforest. Their soft, chattering calls only add to their appeal.
If you’re planning a birding trip to South America, keep an eye out for this stunning tanager. It’s worth the effort!
4. Blue-gray Tanager
For birders who prefer a subtler splash of color, the Blue-gray Tanager might be their cup of tea.
Known for its soft blue-gray feathers, this bird is both calming and striking in its own right. These tanagers are social creatures, often seen in small flocks as they forage for fruit and insects.
The Blue-gray Tanager has a gentle, melodic song that’s pleasant to hear, making it a joy to observe. While its muted coloring might not be as flashy as some other tanagers, its understated beauty and easy-going nature make it a favorite for birders who enjoy spotting birds that blend seamlessly into their environment.
If you visit the lowland forests of Central and South America, particularly in places like Costa Rica and Panama, you’ll have the opportunity to spot this peaceful species in its natural habitat.
5. Hooded Tanager
Native to the tropical forests of Central America, the Hooded Tanager is a birding dream for those who love vibrant, contrasting colors.
Its dramatic black “hood” is what immediately catches the eye, and when it’s perched high in the trees, it’s impossible to miss.
These tanagers are social creatures, often found in groups, adding energy and excitement to any birdwatching experience.
Their sweet, cheerful calls make them not just a visual treat but a delightful auditory one as well.
Whether you’re hiking through the rainforests or strolling along a quiet trail, spotting the Hooded Tanager is sure to be a highlight of your birding adventure
6. Bay-headed Tanager
The Bay-headed Tanager might just be one of the most photogenic birds in the tanager family. With its vibrant mix of colors, it looks like it belongs in a tropical painting.
Roaming through Central America, this tanager is often spotted in the canopy, flitting from tree to tree in search of fruit and insects.
A social bird, it’s usually found in pairs or small groups, making it a delight for birders to observe.
Its rich, colorful plumage and energetic nature make this tanager one of the more exciting birds to spot on a birdwatching adventure
7. Crimson-collared Tanager
The Crimson-collared Tanager is a true spectacle, with its bright crimson red plumage and striking dark wings.
Playful and active, with chattering calls that bring a joyful energy to any birdwatching experience.
If you’re lucky enough to spot one, it’s sure to be a memorable moment.
These stunning birds can be spotted in the lowland rainforests of Central America, where their vibrant colors stand out against the lush greenery.
They’re like nature’s confetti, adding a burst of excitement to every birdwatching adventure!
8. Paradise Tanager
As the name suggests, the Paradise Tanager is nothing short of breathtaking. With a dazzling combination of green, blue, yellow, and black feathers, it’s a living rainbow
Calling Colombia its home, the Paradise Tanager is a favorite among birders looking for something truly spectacular. These birds are often spotted in the understory of rainforests, where they flit about in search of fruit and insects.
Their incredible coloring makes them a challenge to spot at times, but once you do, it’s an unforgettable sight.
With their vibrant feathers and energetic behavior, the Paradise Tanager is definitely one to add to your birding bucket list.
9. Black-collared Tanager
A perfect mix of striking colors and an energetic nature, the Black-collared Tanager is a must-see. With its bright yellow body and dark black “collar” around its neck, this tanager stands out from the crowd.
This tanager is not only visually stunning but also adds a vibrant burst of life to its tropical habitat, making it a perfect addition to any birder’s list.
No wonder it seemed so familiar! With that bold red collar, it’s hard not to think of Little Red Riding Hood. Don’t you think?