Save the Cherry-throated Tanager from extinction

With its grey back, black mask and bright red throat, the Critically Endangered Cherry-throated Tanager is a striking and beautiful bird. It is also one of the rarest. Seen only once after its discovery in 1870, the species was believed to be extinct until a small population was rediscovered in the Brazilian Atlantic Rainforest in 1988.

The Cherry-throated Tanager spends the majority of its life high in the rainforest canopy, searching for bugs among the branches. But rampant agricultural conversion has forced the species to live in highly fragmented habitat that also faces expanding urban encroachment. Conservationists estimate that only 10-20 individual birds remain.

Rainforest Trust and our Brazilian partner, Instituto Marcos Daniel, are working to save the last population of Cherry-throated Tanager from extinction through the creation of a 788-acre protected area of primary forest.

Protect a bird paradise

The region is a priority area for bird conservation. Your support of this project will benefit five globally threatened bird species, including the Critically Endangered Cherry-throated Tanager, the Vinaceous-breasted Amazon (EN), White-bearded Antshrike (VU), Golden-tailed Parrotlet (VU) and Brown-backed Parrotlet (VU).

The site also contains critical habitat for the Buffy-headed Marmoset (CR). Populations of the little-known Brazilian Golden Frog (NT) can also be found in the area.

Be a part of our solution

Protecting the birds of Brazil has been a conservation priority for Rainforest Trust for many years. Once the land is protected, our partner will develop a strategic plan for species conservation, including monitoring Cherry-throated Tanager populations. In addition, establishing this reserve will open a path to protect the entire hotspot for all species within the region as well as increase connectivity with reserves nearby.