Nestled within the mountains of a small region, one of the most sought-after and exquisite birds resides, captivating all who are fortunate enough to witness its beauty.
Meet the gold-ringed tanager (Bangsia aureocincta), a plump avian adorned with a captivating black head and lower throat, which extends gracefully down the sides of its breast, forming a striking black frame. A prominent golden ring encircles its olive-yellow cheeks and ear coverts, while a delightful splash of yellow adorns the middle of its breast, gradually transitioning to an enchanting olive green below. Its upperparts shimmer in lush green, with the rump and upper tail coverts displaying a mesmerizing iridescent hue. The wings, clad in dusky black, boast a delightful touch of blue along the wing coverts and secondary feathers. Dark red eyes, a black upper bill, off-white lower mandible, and gray feet complete the tanager’s alluring appearance.
The female tanager bears a resemblance to her male counterpart, but with a narrower and more greenish-yellow gold ring. Her breast displays a slightly duller shade, as do many of her other markings.
Only a single juvenile bird has been observed, characterized by its subdued appearance compared to the adults.
Inhabiting the lush and very humid cloud forests on the Choco slopes, this magnificent creature finds its home at elevations ranging from 1350 to 2195 meters.
Although the precise details of the gold-ringed tanager’s diet remain a mystery, it is believed to consume both fruit and insects.
Much remains to be unveiled about this elusive bird’s breeding habits, yet some observations indicate the presence of dome-shaped nests, situated approximately 2.3 meters above the ground. These nests are meticulously crafted, primarily consisting of moss, with the interior thoughtfully lined with rootlets and delicate fibers. Peak breeding activities seem to occur between May and June, with fledglings seen in July.
As we marvel at the mesmerizing beauty of the gold-ringed tanager, let us recognize the importance of preserving its unique habitat and ensuring the continuity of its existence in the wild. With dedication and conservation efforts, we can ensure that this rare and sought-after bird continues to grace our mountains with its golden rings of pride.
