The black-tipped cotinga is a species of bird in the family Cotingidae. It is found in Colombia, Ecuador, and Panama.
Region
Chocó–Darién of western Panama, western Colombia, and northwestern Ecuador
Typical Environment
Inhabits humid lowland and foothill forests on the Pacific slope, most often in the canopy and at forest edges. It favors tall fruiting trees and can occur along rivers, in semi-open forest, and in selectively logged areas if large fruiting trees remain. Most frequently recorded in relatively undisturbed tracts but will sometimes use secondary growth adjacent to primary forest. Generally scarce and local throughout its range due to extensive deforestation.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 900 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A striking canopy cotinga of the Chocó biogeographic region, the male is gleaming white with contrasting black wing tips—hence the name. Females are dusky and mottled, offering strong sexual dimorphism. It perches conspicuously atop tall fruiting trees but can be quiet and easily overlooked. Habitat loss in lowland humid forests has made encounters increasingly local.
Temperament
quiet and unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
short direct flights between tall trees; deliberate with brief glides
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly or in pairs, occasionally in small loose groups at fruiting trees. Nests high in the canopy; breeding behavior is poorly known but likely involves simple perch displays by males. Often associates loosely with other frugivores when trees are in heavy fruit.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are soft and sparse, often a thin, plaintive whistle or a few mellow notes delivered from high perches. Calls can be easily missed amid canopy noise, contributing to the species’ elusive reputation.
