Hepatic Tanager
Although the Hepatic Tanager has the most restricted range of the four tanagers in the United States, in fact it is the most widespread member of its genus. It breeds from the southwestern United States southward all the way to Argentina.

The Hepatic Tanager may include three different species: the Hepatic Tanager, found from the United States southward to Nicaragua; the Tooth-billed Tanager, found from Costa Rica to northern South America; and the Red Tanager of eastern and southeastern South America. The two southern forms lack the dusky ear coverts of the northern form.

The Hepatic Tanager has been little studied. As of 2002, only 106 had been banded in the United States, and only one banded bird had ever been recovered.

The Hepatic Tanager breeds primarily in Arizona and New Mexico southward through Central America to South America. Also locally in southeastern California, southeastern Colorado, and western Texas. It winters from southern Arizona southward.
Hepatic Tanager Range Map

The Hepatic Tanager prefers open pine and pine-oak forests where it moves slowly and deliberately through foliage, foraging for insects. The Hepatic Tanager also feeds on some fruits in addition to insects. The Hepatic Tanager's song is a series of rich slurred, whistled notes interspersed with short pauses and it's call is an abrupt "chup."

Attracting Tanagers

Visit Shaw Creek Bird Supply and see our selection of Bird Houses, Bird Feeders, Hummingbird Feeders & Heated Bird Baths .

Copyright © 2003 Shaw Creek Bird Supply