Scarlet-bellied Mountain-Tanager

*Top 50 Target Species (pretty factor off-the-charts)

In Ecuador, the Scarlet-bellied Mountain-Tanager is a fairly common and unmistakable resident of humid montane forests, typically found between 2,600 and 3,600 meters along both Andean slopes. With its vivid red belly, blue shoulder patch, and black upperparts, it forages in pairs or small flocks at all forest levels, often joining mixed-species groups in mossy cloud forests and forest edges. Though its population is stable and listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, ongoing deforestation and habitat fragmentation pose localized threats. Its presence in reserves like Yanacocha and Cajas makes it a favorite among birders and a vibrant symbol of Ecuador’s highland biodiversity.