Saltatores

Saltatores is a suborder of birds that includes the tanagers, cardinals, and their relatives, collectively known as New World cardinals or passerines. This group is part of the order Passeriformes, which is the largest order of birds, encompassing over half of all bird species. The name "Saltatores" originates from the Latin word *saltator*, meaning "dancer," reflecting the agile and often acrobatic movements of many species within this group.

The Saltatores suborder comprises several families, including the Thraupidae (tanagers), Cardinalidae (cardinals, grosbeaks, and their allies), and Pipridae (manakins). These birds are primarily found in the Americas, with the highest diversity concentrated in the Neotropics—Central and South America. They inhabit a variety of environments, from dense forests and woodlands to open fields and scrublands, often occupying similar ecological niches to Old World finches and sparrows.

Many species in this suborder are known for their vibrant plumage, with bright colors in males used for mating displays. Their diets are typically omnivorous, consisting of seeds, fruits, insects, and occasionally small vertebrates. Some species, like the manakins, are renowned for elaborate courtship rituals involving complex vocalizations and aerial displays.

Behaviorally, Saltatores species exhibit a range of social structures, from solitary or monogamous pairings to larger, cooperative groups. Nesting habits vary, with some species building intricate cup-shaped nests while others use cavities or even abandoned nests of other birds. Conservation efforts are important for many species, as habitat loss and climate change threaten their populations, particularly in tropical regions.

Taxonomically, the classification of Saltatores has evolved over time, with some older systems grouping them differently. Modern molecular studies have refined the understanding of their evolutionary relationships, confirming their distinct place within the Passeriformes. Their ecological and behavioral diversity makes them a fascinating subject for both ornithologists and bird enthusiasts.