The grey-winged cotinga is a Vulnerable species of bird in the family Cotingidae. It is endemic to Brazil.
Region
Atlantic Forest of southeastern Brazil
Typical Environment
Occurs patchily along ridges and upper slopes of the Serra dos Órgãos and adjacent Serra do Mar in Rio de Janeiro state. It favors mature, cool, and moist cloud forest with a dense canopy and frequent mist. Birds are often associated with bamboo-dominated understory and fruiting trees along ridgelines. The range is highly localized and fragmented due to historical deforestation and ongoing development.
Altitude Range
1000–2000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This elusive cotinga is confined to high-elevation Atlantic Forest in southeastern Brazil and was long known from very few records. Formerly placed in the genus Tijuca, it is now treated within Lipaugus based on genetic evidence. Its specialized montane habitat and small range make it vulnerable to habitat loss and climate-driven upslope shifts.
Temperament
elusive and shy
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between canopy gaps
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs in the upper canopy. Displays and song perches are used during the breeding season. Nests are presumed to be simple cups placed high in dense foliage, but breeding biology remains poorly documented.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A clear, far-carrying, whistled note typical of pihas, often delivered singly and repeated at intervals. Calls include soft, plaintive whistles from concealed canopy perches, especially at dawn.
Plumage
Male mostly dark slaty to blackish with a contrasting pale grey wing panel; female more olive-brown with less distinct wing contrast. Plumage is smooth and uniform, lacking heavy streaking. The wings show a clear pale panel in good light.
Diet
Primarily consumes small to medium fruits and berries taken from canopy and subcanopy, often from Lauraceae and Melastomataceae. Occasionally supplements diet with insects gleaned from foliage or captured on short sallies. Foraging is deliberate, with long periods spent perched near fruiting trees.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in the upper canopy and along forested ridgelines where fruiting trees are concentrated. Frequently uses bamboo-rich patches and edges of cloud forest clearings when fruit is abundant.
