Your wildlife photography guide.
Explore the yellow-backed tanager in detail, study its behavior, prepare your shots.
Where to observe and photograph the yellow-backed tanager in the wild
Learn where and when to spot the yellow-backed tanager in the wild, how to identify the species based on distinctive features, and what natural environments it inhabits. The WildlifePhotographer app offers tailored photography tips that reflect the yellow-backed tanager’s behavior, helping you capture better wildlife images. Explore the full species profile for key information including description, habitat, active periods, and approach techniques.
Yellow-backed Tanager
Scientific name: Hemithraupis flavicollis

IUCN Status: Least Concern
Family: THRAUPIDAE
Group: Birds
Sensitivity to human approach: Suspicious
Minimum approach distance: 10 m
Courtship display: September to December
Incubation: 13–14 jours
Hatchings: September to December
Habitat:
Tropical forests, subtropical forests, open wooded areas, plantations
Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.
Identification and description:
The Yellow-backed Tanager, or Hemithraupis flavicollis, is a small, lively songbird from the tropical forests of South America, easily recognized by its bright yellow back, black head (in males), and white underparts. It is found from eastern Panama through the Amazon Basin, the Guianas, and as far as southern Brazil. It lives in the canopy of humid forests, forest edges, and secondary growth. Active and sociable, it often joins mixed-species flocks and feeds on fruits, insects, and nectar. This adaptable species is common, and its population is considered stable across its range.
Recommended lens:
400mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.
Photography tips:
To photograph the Yellow-backed Tanager, it is advisable to use a 400mm lens or longer to capture precise details without disturbing the bird. Look for areas where these birds feed, such as forest edges or plantations. Be patient and discreet, as although they are suspicious, they can get used to your presence if you remain still. Take advantage of the early morning hours for the best light and to observe their peak activity.
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