You can easily identify a vibrant tanager that is quite noticeable due to its large size and loud, noisy behavior. It displays a gorgeous satin-red neck and shimmering steely-blue wings in contrast to its predominantly dark, blackish hue. The white cap on its head is its most striking feature, which glitters like freshly fallen snow in bright sunlight. Both males and females share similar appearances, but the females and juveniles have a slightly less vibrant throat. These birds are not commonly found in large numbers, usually flying swiftly across the canopy of the Andean subtropical and temperate zone in small groups and occasionally perching on prominent branches. They sound very much like jays, and their behavior and calls are quite similar. On rare occasions, they can be seen congregated with Turquoise Jays.
