A rare and locally distributed bird attached to the subcanopy of subtropical montane forest between 600-2500m. Usually found in pairs that feed independently of mix flocks.

Present in Colombia in the Western Andes and northern Central Andes. Also, in the Santa Marta Mountains and northern section of the Eastern Andes, where it is more common.

Can be seen at RNA El Dorado in the Santa Marta Mountains, where this image was taken.