Scientific Name: Ramphocelus passerinii

Fairly common in humid tropical lowlands. Favors evergreen forest edges, plantations, and verdant second growth, such as areas along roadsides. Forages mainly at low to middle levels often in fairly noisy small groups. Male is unmistakable if seen clearly: velvety black with a blinding scarlet rump. Female is very different: note distinctive bluish-white bill, tawny rump, and grayish head. Formerly known as Cherrie’s Tanager and Passerini’s Tanager.

Often seen darting between branches or perching conspicuously while uttering sharp, chattering calls. These tanagers feed on a varied diet of fruits, insects, and small arthropods, sometimes joining mixed-species flocks as they move through the canopy. During the breeding season, pairs become more territorial, building neat cup-shaped nests hidden among dense foliage. Their presence, along with their vivid coloration, adds a striking touch of life and sound to the lush tropical landscape.