Black-chinned Mountain Tanager

The Black-chinned Mountain Tanager occurs along the humid western slope of the northern Ecuadorian Andes, particularly from Esmeraldas to Pichincha Province, typically between 1,800 and 2,800 meters. It is generally uncommon and patchily distributed, often seen in mixed-species flocks foraging in the canopy for fruit and insects, with its vibrant blue-and-yellow plumage and dark chin making it one of the region’s most striking tanagers. The species is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, with a relatively restricted Chocó range but a stable population that tolerates moderate habitat disturbance. Natural history observations highlight its social behavior, preference for mossy forest interiors, and seasonal movements, though its nesting biology in Ecuador remains poorly documented.