Swallowtanager

Swallowtanager is a common name that can refer to several species of birds, but most often it is used for those belonging to the genus *Tersina*. The most well-known is the brightly colored Swallow Tanager (*Tersina viridis*), native to South America. This species is characterized by its vibrant turquoise plumage in males and olive-green in females. They have a distinctive flattened bill and a notched tail, reminiscent of swallows, hence their common name.

Swallow Tanagers inhabit a variety of forested environments, including rainforests, gallery forests, and plantations, often near water. They are social birds, typically seen in small flocks, and are known to nest communally in tree cavities or other sheltered locations. Their diet primarily consists of insects and fruits. The genus *Tersina* is distinct from true tanagers and is sometimes placed in its own family, Tersinidae, or grouped with other related families depending on the classification system. The term "swallowtanager" highlights their superficial resemblance to swallows in their aerial foraging habits and general appearance.