Species profile
About this species
The Azure-shouldered Tanager is a medium-sized tanager endemic to the Atlantic Forest of south-eastern Brazil. It displays striking plumage with vivid blue shoulder patches contrasting against its otherwise olive-green & greyish body tones. The species is closely related to the Palm Tanager & shares similar foraging behaviours, often feeding on fruit & insects in forest canopy.
The Azure-shouldered Tanager inhabits the Atlantic Forest biome of south-eastern Brazil, favouring humid montane forests, forest edges & secondary growth areas. It is typically found at elevations between 400m & 1600m, particularly in areas with abundant fruiting trees & dense understorey vegetation.
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Azure-shouldered Tanager with us in Brazil.
These departures are part of our South America programme.
In the field, David Miles helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
Early morning hours between 6am & 9am offer the best light & highest activity levels. The austral spring & summer months of September through December coincide with increased bird activity & breeding behaviour, making this the optimal season for photography.
Position yourself near fruiting trees in the forest edge during early morning when the birds are most active & the light is soft enough to capture the brilliant blue shoulder colouration. Use a telephoto lens of at least 400mm to achieve a clean background & isolate the bird from dense foliage. Patience is essential - locate a reliable feeding tree & wait quietly, as the birds will return repeatedly to productive food sources.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Azure-shouldered Tanager
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.