About Tachyphonus rufus (Boddaert, 1783)
Scientific name: Tachyphonus rufus (Boddaert, 1783)
The adult white-lined tanager is 18.5 cm (7.3 in) long and weighs 33 g (1.2 oz). It has a long tail and a mostly black, stout, pointed bill. The adult male has glossy black plumage overall, except for white underwing coverts and a small white patch on the upperwing. These white markings stand out clearly when the bird is in flight, but are rarely visible at other times. Females and immature individuals have entirely rufous plumage, which is somewhat paler on the underparts.
This species lives in semi-open areas, including gardens.
These birds are restless but not wary of threats. They eat a wide variety of fruit, especially fruit from epiphytes. They also consume small amounts of nectar and insects, which include beetles, ants, and grasshoppers.
In Trinidad and Tobago, local common names for this species include 'Parson' (used for the male) and 'Singing Angel'. On these islands, the species is highly valued for its whistling ability.
