Native to the Atlantic forest region, this avian gem possesses a striking appearance that belies its small stature. The male, adorned with a captivating blend of aquamarine-green, yellow-green, and black hues, stands as a testament to nature’s artistry. Its back and scapulars cloak in obsidian darkness, while the rump gleams in shades of orange-yellow, and the uppertail-coverts shimmer in bright apple-green.

Endemic to southeastern Brazil, parts of southeastern Paraguay, and northeastern Argentina, the green-headed tanager thrives in a habitat rich with diversity. Its diet consists primarily of fruits and arthropods, sourced from cultivated and wild fruits, as well as berries from bromeliads. Often foraging in pairs or small groups, these birds display acrobatic prowess as they hop along branches, deftly manipulating their prey with precision.

While the species faces challenges in deforested areas, its population remains relatively stable, often found in protected regions where it contributes to the ecosystem’s balance. With subtle pastel shades of cinnamon, yellow, and orange adorning its plumage, the green-headed tanager shines resplendently from any vantage point, a testament to the enduring beauty of nature.