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Blue-grey Tanager

About Blue-grey Tanagers

The Blue-grey Tanager (Thraupis episcopus) is a small, brightly coloured bird. True to its name, the bird's plumage is primarily a soft blue-grey. It has a distinctive, vibrant light blue on the wings, tail, and underside. Depending on the subspecies and location, some individuals might show a bit of a green or lavender tint.

They primarily eat fruit but also consume insects, making them omnivorous. They are often spotted foraging in the canopy or visiting garden bird feeders.

It's relatively small, about 6.3–7.1 inches in length, with a wingspan that complements its lightweight body, which weighs around 30–40 grams.

Blue-grey Tanagers are omnivorous. They mainly feed on fruits like bananas, papayas, and berries, but they also hunt insects, particularly during the breeding season when they need extra protein for their young. They forage actively in the canopy and can also visit bird feeders in gardens.

They communicate with soft, high-pitched calls, including chirps and whistles. Their song is not as complex as that of some other songbirds, but it is pleasant and melodic.

Commonality of Blue-grey Tanagers

The Blue-grey Tanager is classified as Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). This means that, currently, there are no significant threats to its global population. In fact, due to its adaptability, the species thrives in various habitats, including urban and suburban environments.

Protection & Threats

While not endangered, the bird could face local threats due to habitat loss, especially in regions undergoing deforestation or urbanization. However, its ability to live in human-modified environments helps mitigate some of these risks.

Climate Change

As temperatures rise, the range of the Blue-grey Tanager may shift. For example, warmer climates could push populations toward higher altitudes or latitudes in search of cooler environments. This can lead to changes in their geographical distribution, potentially reducing their numbers in areas that become too hot or dry for them to thrive.