Crimson-collared Tanager (Ramphocelus sanguinolentus apricus)
23 January 2009, Rancho Naturalista, Costa Rica
Males and females are alike in this striking tanager which seemed to visit
the feeders only when fresh bananas were put out.
Most field guide authors (e.g. Stiles & Skutch, Howell, Ridgely) place this
bird in its own genus, Phlogothraupis on the basis of its different bill
shape, plumage sequence, voice and behavior. E.g. the Crimson-collared
Tanager is usually seen in pairs while other members of the genus are
normally found in small groups.
This is a Central American endemic ranging along the Caribbean slope from
S. Mexico to Panama. Two races are recognized. This is the slightly
smaller, more southerly R. s. apricus.
Panasonic Lumix LZ5 / Nikon FieldScope 3 / 30X WA hand-held (no adapter)