The chestnut-crested cotinga is a species of bird in the family Cotingidae. It is found in Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs along the east and central Andean slopes of Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and into northern Bolivia. It favors humid montane and cloud forests, especially edges, ridgelines, and areas with fruiting trees. The species also uses semi-open woodland and secondary growth adjacent to primary forest. It is typically seen singly or in pairs in the mid- to upper canopy. Local upslope or downslope movements may occur following fruit availability.
Altitude Range
1200–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A high-Andean frugivore, the chestnut-crested cotinga often perches conspicuously atop tall snags or emergent trees near fruiting sources. Males show a rich chestnut crest that can be raised during display. By swallowing fruits whole and passing the seeds, it plays an important role in montane forest regeneration. It is generally quiet and can be overlooked despite its size.
Temperament
generally quiet, often solitary or in pairs
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief glides between canopy perches
Social Behavior
Usually perches conspicuously on exposed branches near fruiting trees. Pairs likely form during the breeding season, with displays that include crest raising and posture changes. Nesting is presumed to be a small, shallow cup placed on a horizontal branch in the mid to upper canopy. It may join loose aggregations at especially productive fruiting trees.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are soft and infrequent, including low whistles and quiet notes. Often more easily detected by its silhouette and behavior than by voice.
Plumage
Chunky cotinga with mostly gray to slaty body, contrasting rich chestnut crest and often a wash of chestnut on the crown and throat; wings and tail darker with subtle pale edging.
Diet
Primarily consumes a variety of fruits and berries, swallowing them whole and later dispersing seeds. Diet likely includes fruits from melastomes and other montane forest trees and shrubs. Occasionally takes insects or other small invertebrates, especially when fruit is scarce.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in the mid to upper canopy of humid montane and cloud forests, especially at forest edges and clearings with fruiting trees. Will also use secondary growth and riparian corridors where fruit is abundant.
