Cherry-throated Tanager (Nemosia rourei)
JustificationThis species qualifies as Critical owing to its extremely small range and population in a single area. Populations may occur in other areas, but these are likely to be small and declining.
Identification 14 cm. Strikingly plumaged tanager. Silvery-white crown grades to grey in rest of upperparts. Black wings and tail. Black forehead and broad mask. White underparts with conspicuous, bright red throat and bib. Orangey iris and pinky legs. Voice Complex series of thin warbles, and double-whistle calls.
Range & Population Nemosia rourei is currently known from only Fazenda Pindobas IV in EspSanto, Brazil, where small numbers have been recorded since 1998. Until its rediscovery, it was only definitely known from the 19th century type-specimen collected at MuriaMinas Gerais (though it has been hypothetised that this locality was actually Macaéin Rio de Janeiro), and a 1941 sighting of eight birds in adjacent EspSanto. There have been probable sighting at the Augusto Ruschi (Nova Lombardia) Biological Reserve in 1992 and Fazenda Pedra Bonita, Minas Gerais. However, subsequent surveys at the latter site have not been successful. There is evidence that Rio de Janeiro National Museum once held two (now lost) additional specimens. The general paucity of records must be a reflection of this species's incredible rarity and very patchy distribution.
Ecology It occurs primarily in the canopy of humid montane forest at elevations of 900-1,100 m . The type-locality, Muriaé(if correct), is at 210 m. Altitudinal movements are plausible but the species is apparently resident at Fazenda Pindobas IV. Birds forage in the interior of the crowns of tall trees, occasionally lower towards the forest edge, and appear to favour moss and lichen-encrusted branches, often associating with mixed-species flocks. The diet is reportedly arthropods. Nest-building has been observed in late November.
Threats Extensive deforestation within its range must have had an impact on this species. The area of EspSanto where it was observed in 1941 is now devoid of forest.
Action It is protected under Brazilian law. There is a probable record in Augusto Ruschi Biological Reserve but, given the high level of ornithological coverage, it is unlikely that the area supports a population. There are two other protected areas within its conceivable range which may support the species, though one is almost entirely secondary forest. The owners of Fazenda Pindobas IV have expressed interest in protecting the remaining native forest on their property.
