26-3-2017 RANCHO NATURALISTA - BUFF THROATED SALTATOR (Saltator maximus)

This is a species of dense vegetation. The buff-throated saltator feeds on fruit (e.g. of Cymbopetalum mayanum (Annonaceae), Trophis racemosa (Moraceae), and gumbo-limbo (Bursera simaruba)), buds, nectar and slow-moving insects. It forages at low and mid levels, sometimes with mixed species flocks.

The two pale blue eggs per clutch measure some 22–32 mm (0.87–1.26 in) long by about 16.5–21.5 mm (0.65–0.85 in) wide and weigh about 4.8–6.1 g (0.17–0.22 oz) each, which is large among Saltator eggs. They are laid in a bulky cup nest up to 2 m (6.6 ft) high in a tree or bush.

26-3-2017 RANCHO NATURALISTA - BUFF THROATED SALTATOR (Saltator maximus)

The Buff-throated Saltator (Saltator maximus) is a member of the tanager family, Thraupidae, notable for its seed-eating habits. This bird presents a striking figure, measuring on average 20 cm in length and tipping the scales at 42–52 g. The adult boasts a slate-grey head adorned with a white supercilium and a greenish crown. Its upperparts are cloaked in olive green, while the underparts transition from grey to a buff hue on the lower belly. The throat is a distinctive buff color, framed by a black edge. Both the robust, convex bill and the legs are a deep black. Juveniles are somewhat less vivid, with a white-mottled blackish throat and breast, and bear brown markings on their lower underparts.

When identifying the Buff-throated Saltator, look for the characteristic buff throat bordered by black, the white supercilium above the eye, and the greenish tinge on the crown. The olive-green upperparts and grey to buff underparts are also key features. The bird's thick bill is another distinguishing trait.

This species thrives in areas of dense vegetation, where it can often be found foraging.

The Buff-throated Saltator breeds across a wide range, from southeastern Mexico to western Ecuador and northeastern Brazil.

The Buff-throated Saltator is known to forage at low to mid levels, sometimes joining mixed-species flocks. It is a bird that is as comfortable in the company of others as it is alone.

The common call of this species is a high-pitched "seeer." Males engage in a melodious duet, with one part warbling a cheery "cheery cheery" and the other responding with "cheery to you."

Breeding Buff-throated Saltators lay two pale blue eggs per clutch, which are notably large for the genus Saltator. These eggs are deposited in a bulky cup nest, which may be situated up to 2 meters high in a tree or bush.

The diet of the Buff-throated Saltator is quite varied, including fruit from trees such as Cymbopetalum mayanum, Trophis racemosa, and gumbo-limbo, as well as buds, nectar, and slow-moving insects.

The Buff-throated Saltator is currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, indicating a stable population without immediate threats to its survival.