Masked Tanager

The Masked Tanager occurs in eastern Ecuador, where it inhabits humid lowland forests, forest edges, and secondary growth below about 800 meters, particularly in the upper Amazon Basin. It is generally uncommon but locally present in suitable habitat, often seen in mixed-species flocks foraging for fruit and insects in the mid-story and canopy. The species is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, with a broad Amazonian range and a population that appears stable despite ongoing deforestation. Natural history observations highlight its striking black facial mask contrasting with turquoise-blue plumage, social foraging behavior, and preference for disturbed or edge habitats, though nesting biology remains poorly documented.