The greater blue-eared starling is distributed across various regions, including the northern Guianas, most of Venezuela, and east-central Colombia. It is also found near the outlet of the Amazon River in Brazil, as well as in a significant portion of the eastern part of the country. Additionally, this species extends its range to cover Paraguay and northeast Argentina. While it occurs locally in Bolivia and Peru, it can be observed in a range of semi-open habitats with trees. This adaptable bird is known to inhabit human-altered environments like gardens, plantations, and parks, showcasing its ability to thrive in diverse landscapes.
The burnished-buff tanager exhibits several subspecies, categorized into two main groups: the northern and western cayana group, and the southern and eastern flava group. An intermediate subspecies, huberi from Marajó Island, shares characteristics with both main groups.
Males belonging to the cayana group feature an orange-rufous crown, a black mask, and cream-colored underparts with a distinct blue tint on the throat and chest. On the other hand, males of the flava group have an orange-buff crown, buff-colored underparts, and a black patch extending from the mask over the throat and central chest to the mid-belly. In both groups, males display turquoise wings and tail.
Females, in general, have a duller appearance compared to males. They possess a black patch, forming a poorly demarcated “shadow” of a mask. The variations in coloration and markings distinguish the two main groups and the intermediate subspecies within the burnished-buff tanager species.
