Priorities for Future Research

Although the Golden-naped Tanager is listed as "low" in terms of research priority compared to other Neotropical birds (Parker et al. 1996), much of the basic biology of this species is still unknown. The physical appearance of the species and geographical distribution is well described, but there is a considerable amount to learn about the life history, phylogeny, behavior, vocalization, populations and demography. The species status of northern versus southern populations should be evaluated with genetic data, given their differences in plumage. Conducting more research on this uncommon and elusive species will not only broaden available information for this particular species, but also would contribute to the knowledge of the tanagers as a whole.