Region

Central and South America (Neotropics)

Typical Environment

Occupies humid lowland and foothill forests from southern Mesoamerica through much of the northern and western Amazon Basin. Prefers mature evergreen rainforest with dense understory, but also uses secondary growth, forest edges, and gallery forests. Commonly forages on the forest floor, especially where fruiting trees drop abundant fruits. Sensitive to heavy hunting and extensive forest fragmentation, so most abundant in large, relatively undisturbed tracts.

Altitude Range

0–1500 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Temperament

shy and secretive

Flight Pattern

explosive flush with short rapid wingbeats, low direct flight into cover

Social Behavior

Usually solitary or in pairs, keeping to dense understory. Nests on the ground; the male incubates and raises the chicks. Clutches often contain eggs from multiple females, reflecting a polyandrous/polygynandrous system. Chicks are precocial and follow the male soon after hatching.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

A series of deep, resonant, flute-like whistles that carry long distances through forest. Calls are most frequent at dawn and dusk and can sound mournful or booming, often given in spaced intervals.

Diet

Primarily consumes fallen fruits and berries, supplemented with seeds and tender plant matter. Also takes insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates gleaned from the leaf litter. Occasionally swallows small vertebrates or snails. By ingesting and defecating seeds, it serves as an important seed disperser for many forest plants.

Preferred Environment

Forages on the forest floor under dense canopy, especially beneath fruiting trees and along quiet trails. Uses areas with deep leaf litter and abundant cover to remain concealed while feeding.