Species · GBIF taxon 2492082
Red-capped Cardinal
Paroaria gularisAlso known as Gularis Cardinal, Red-headed Cardinal
Red-capped Cardinals are striking, social tanagers easily recognized by their brilliant crimson heads, black throats, and clean white underparts. They are almost always found near water, actively foraging along riverbanks, lake edges, and mangrove swamps in pairs or small family groups. These birds are highly vocal, frequently uttering sweet, whistling songs from low branches overhanging the water.
VibrantWetland-dwellingSocial
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Insects
- Seeds
- Berries
Predators
- Snakes
- Birds of prey
- Arboreal mammals
ThreatsHabitat destruction, water pollution, and the illegal pet trade
HabitatsMangroves, riverbanks, lake edges, flooded forests, and swamps
Life span5 to 8 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyThraupidae
- SpeciesParoaria gularis
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
- Look near water: Scan low branches and floating vegetation along slow-moving rivers and oxbow lakes.
- Listen for whistles: Follow their sweet, repetitive whistling calls to locate active pairs in dense foliage.
Image unavailableFrequent Companion 
Close Relative (c) David F. Belmonte, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by David F. Belmonte · cc-by
Close Relative (c) Nicolas Olejnik, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Nicolas Olejnik · cc-by
Help improve the field guideSomething wrong?
Checking your Fauna account…Report a name, category, or profile issue for review.