The lovely cotinga is a species of bird in the family Cotingidae. It is found in Mexico and every Central American country except El Salvador.
Region
Mesoamerica
Typical Environment
Occurs from southern Mexico south through Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and into western Panama, largely absent from El Salvador. It favors the canopy and subcanopy of mature humid evergreen and tall secondary forests, often along Caribbean slopes. Birds are most often encountered at fruiting trees along forest edges, riverine corridors, and in foothill forests. It is generally local and uncommon, with patchy presence where suitable habitat remains.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A canopy-dwelling frugivore, the lovely cotinga is often surprisingly hard to spot despite the male’s brilliant blue plumage. Males typically perch high and quietly between short foraging flights to fruiting trees. The species depends on intact humid lowland forests and is sensitive to extensive deforestation. Females are cryptically patterned, aiding camouflage while nesting.
Cotinga amabilis, Museum de Genève
Temperament
quiet and unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between canopy trees
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in loose association around fruiting trees; occasionally mixes with other frugivores. Males display from high exposed perches; courtship is mostly visual. Nesting is in the canopy, with a small, lightly built platform nest where the female undertakes most incubation duties.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are sparse and subdued: soft whistles and low, plaintive notes. Often more easily detected by silhouette or color when the male perches conspicuously than by voice.
