Buff-throated Saltator(Saltator maximus)

23 January 2009, Rancho Naturalista, Costa Rica The relationships of the Saltators are unclear. They have traditionally been placed with Cardinals and Grosbeaks, but recent research indicates that they are unrelated to those birds. Pending further research the South American Checklist Committee has placed them as Incertae Sedis between the Tanagers and Sparrows (Emberizidae). This is an adult. Immatures have less black on the crown. Panasonic Lumix LZ5 / Nikon Fieldscope 3 / 30X WA / hand-held (no adapter)