The opal-crowned manakin is a Vulnerable species of bird in the family Pipridae. It is endemic to Brazil.
Region
Brazilian Amazon
Typical Environment
Occurs in lowland terra firme rainforest south of the Amazon River, favoring tall primary forest but also using edges, light gaps, and occasionally secondary growth. It is typically found in the midstory to lower canopy, often near fruiting trees. The species is largely tied to interfluvial forests between major rivers, where it maintains small display courts. Local persistence depends on intact forest; it is sensitive to extensive clearing and fragmentation.
Altitude Range
0–700 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This small manakin is endemic to the Brazilian Amazon and the male’s crown shines with an opaline, blue‑green iridescence that changes with the light. It forms classic manakin leks where males perform short, acrobatic displays. Remarkably, the recently described golden-crowned manakin (Lepidothrix vilasboasi) likely arose from historical hybridization between the opal-crowned and snow-capped manakins.
Temperament
shy and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Males gather at small leks where each defends a tiny display perch, performing hops, darts, and wing flicks to attract females. Females visit leks to choose mates and then nest and rear young alone. Nests are small cups placed on horizontal forks in the understory.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are thin, high-pitched notes and buzzy trills, often given from semi-concealed perches. Males add sharp ticks and wing snaps during displays, creating a distinctive mechanical accompaniment.