A molecular phylogenetic study published in 2014 found that many of the members of Thraupis was embedded within Tangara.

Two of these genera were newly erected (Stilpnia, Poecilostreptus) and two were resurrected: they had been introduced earlier but were not in use (Ixothraupis, Chalcothraupis).

[6][7] The genus now contains 28 species:[6] These tanagers are mainly found high in forest canopies, but some occupy more open habitat.

They are found at all elevations below tree line but are most diverse in the Andean subtropical and foothill forests of Colombia, Ecuador and Peru.

The female builds a usually well concealed cup nest and lays two brown- or lilac-speckled white eggs.