The blue-rumped manakin is a species of bird in the family Pipridae. It is found in Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.
Region
Northern Andes
Typical Environment
Occurs on the eastern slopes of the Andes from southern Colombia through Ecuador into northern Peru. Prefers humid to wet montane and foothill forests with dense understory and frequent light gaps. It uses both mature forest and well-developed secondary growth, often near streams and steep ravines. Typically found in the lower to middle strata, moving rapidly between fruiting shrubs and small trees.
Altitude Range
400–1700 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Males gather in small leks where they perform swift, buzzy displays punctuated by wing snaps to attract females. The species shows strong sexual dimorphism: males are striking black with a vivid blue rump, while females are olive-green and cryptic. It inhabits humid Andean foothill forests and is often detected by its sharp calls rather than seen.
Temperament
shy and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Males display at small, loosely spaced leks, each defending a tiny court on or near the ground or a low perch. Courtship includes rapid shuttling flights, posturing, and audible wing snaps. Females select mates at leks and alone build a small cup nest, where they incubate and rear the young without male assistance.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are thin, high-pitched whistles interspersed with sharp ticks. Displays often include mechanical snaps and buzzes produced by the wings, especially during close-range courtship.
