The capuchinbird or calfbird is a large passerine bird of the family Cotingidae. It is monotypic within the genus Perissocephalus. It is found in humid forests in north-eastern South America, almost entirely north of the Amazon River and east of Rio Negro.
Region
Guiana Shield, northeastern South America
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid lowland terra firme forests, primarily north of the Amazon River and east of the Rio Negro. It favors mature primary forest with a tall, closed canopy and scattered emergent trees used for display leks. Birds spend most time in the mid- to upper canopy, descending rarely. It may occur along forest edges and ridges but avoids heavily disturbed habitats.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 900 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also known as the calfbird, the capuchinbird is famed for its deep, cow-like booming call that can carry through dense rainforest. It is the sole member of its genus and performs elaborate lek displays high in the canopy. Females nest alone and typically raise a single chick. Its bare bluish head and rich rufous body make it unmistakable among cotingas.
Temperament
Solitary and territorial at display sites; otherwise quiet and unobtrusive.
Flight Pattern
Short rapid wingbeats between canopy perches with brief glides.
Social Behavior
Males gather at traditional leks high in the canopy, each defending a small perch while displaying and vocalizing to attract females. Females visit leks to choose mates, then nest alone, building a small, flimsy cup nest high in a tree. Clutch size is typically one egg.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
The voice is a remarkable, low-frequency booming moan reminiscent of a cow, often preceded by a mechanical buzzing or whirring note. Calls carry over long distances through the forest and are most frequent at dawn during lek activity.
