Tersina viridis (Swallow Tanager)

The Swallow Tanager is found throughout South America, ranging from eastern Panama to northern Argentina. It belongs to the tanager family Thraupidae and is the sole member of its genus, Tersina. The bird exhibits sexual dimorphism, with males displaying a vibrant turquoise blue plumage complemented by a black face and throat, while females are primarily yellow-green with dusky-olive barring on the flanks. Swallow Tanagers measure about 5.7 to 5.9 inches in length and have a broad, flat bill.

They are known for their gregarious nature, though they do not typically associate with other species. Their diet mainly consists of fruit, but they will also catch insects in flight from exposed perches. Uniquely among tanagers, they sometimes excavate holes in banks for nesting. The species is classified as of “Least Concern” by the IUCN. Photographed in Minca, Colombia.