The band-tailed fruiteater is a species of bird in the family Cotingidae, the cotingas. It is found in Bolivia and Peru.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs on the humid east slopes of the central and southern Peruvian Andes into western Bolivia. It inhabits mossy montane and cloud forests, often along forest edges, gaps, and steep ravines. Birds typically use the midstory to canopy and may visit fruiting trees in partially disturbed forest. It is local but can be fairly common where suitable habitat persists.
Altitude Range
1600–3200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A quiet, canopy-dwelling cotinga of Andean cloud forests, the band-tailed fruiteater is most often detected by its thin, high whistles rather than by movement. It plays an important role in seed dispersal by swallowing small fruits whole and passing the seeds intact. Both sexes are largely green and can be surprisingly hard to spot among mossy foliage, with the pale tail band being a key field mark.
Female
Temperament
shy and unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups, often remaining still for long periods in the midstory. Joins mixed-species frugivory at fruiting trees. Nests are small cups placed on horizontal branches in dense, mossy forest.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A thin, high-pitched series of whistles, often given from concealed perches. Notes can be spaced and slightly descending, carrying surprisingly far in still forest air.
