A strikingly beautiful and extremely rare bird that is endemic to Brazil. It is particularly notable not only for its vibrant appearance but also for its critically endangered status, making it one of the most sought-after sightings for birdwatchers and conservationists alike.

Distinctive for its vivid plumage, the Cherry-throated Tanager presents a primarily black body contrasted sharply by a bright red throat patch—the feature from which it derives its common name. The rest of its underparts are white, and it sports a white patch on its wing, which becomes visible when the bird is in flight. This coloration not only makes the Cherry-throated Tanager visually stunning but also quite unique among the tanagers, a group already celebrated for their colorful appearances.

Adult Cherry-throated Tanagers are small, averaging about 13 to 14 cm (5 to 6 in) in length. They inhabit the montane forests of southeastern Brazil, particularly favoring the higher elevations where the climate is cooler and the vegetation dense. Due to its highly specific habitat preferences and limited range, the species is extremely vulnerable to environmental changes and habitat destruction, factors that contribute to its rare status.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Cherry-throated Tanager is its elusive nature. The bird was first described in 1917 but then was not seen again until 1998, leading some to fear it had become extinct. Its rediscovery sparked a renewed interest in its conservation, emphasizing the need to protect the remaining patches of suitable forest habitat. Since then, sightings have remained rare, with only a small population confirmed to exist, concentrated in a protected area specifically managed for its preservation.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Brazil

30-200

Official estimate

CR

2018

Breeding