Characteristics
It was previously considered a subspecies of tangara-scratch (Machaeropterus striolatus), but differs markedly from this in vocalization and, to a lesser degree, in plumage. It measures between 9 and 9.5 inches in length and weighs about 9.4 grams. The male shows the upper parts in the olive coloration. The head features a deep red crown and nape. The face is olive green and the iris is reddish-brown. The wings are green, and the primary remnants are dark. The throat, chest and belly are clear and have a strong brownish-brown color. The feathers of the anal region are brown and its tail is short. The females of the species do not present the red crown and nape, these are olive of the same coloration of the other superior parts.
