The cinnamon-vented piha is a species of bird in the family Cotingidae, the cotingas. It is endemic to Brazil.
Region
Atlantic Forest, southeastern Brazil
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid evergreen and montane cloud forests of the Atlantic Forest biome, typically in the midstory to canopy. It favors well-preserved primary forest but also uses mature secondary forest when fruiting trees are abundant. Often associated with ridges and steep valleys where large fruiting trees are common. In fragmented landscapes it is most reliable in sizable forest reserves and continuous tracts.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This cotinga is restricted to Brazil’s Atlantic Forest, where it keeps to the midstory and canopy and is often detected by its simple, whistled notes. As a primarily fruit-eating bird, it plays an important role in seed dispersal for many native trees. It can persist in larger forest fragments but is sensitive to extensive habitat loss and degradation.
Temperament
generally quiet, solitary or in pairs
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between perches; agile within canopy
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs, occasionally joining mixed-species flocks at fruiting trees. Breeding behavior is discreet; nests are placed on branches in the midstory, and females are thought to undertake most nesting duties. Territorial displays are subtle and more often detected by voice than by conspicuous behavior.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song consists of soft, mellow whistles delivered at intervals from concealed perches. Calls are simple, plaintive notes that carry through the forest understory and midstory.
Plumage
Uniform gray to gray-brown body with a smooth, unspotted texture; contrasting rich cinnamon coloration on the vent and undertail coverts.
Diet
Primarily consumes a wide variety of fruits, swallowing them whole and later regurgitating seeds, thus aiding forest regeneration. Will occasionally take insects and other small arthropods, especially when fruit availability is low. Frequently visits fruiting trees of laurels, melastomes, and other canopy species.
Preferred Environment
Feeds high in the midstory and canopy at fruiting trees, often along ridges or forest edges within mature forest. Also uses interior forest gaps where light promotes fruiting shrubs and small trees.
