The pompadour cotinga is a species of bird in the family Cotingidae. This species lives in the Amazonian rainforest and has a range that extends across the Amazon Basin and includes Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Venezuela, and the Guianas. The pompadour cotinga is primarily a frugivore but has been known to consume insects on occasion. This species of cotinga is distinct in that the males have a burgundy head and body, bright white wings, and yellow eyes. Like other members of the Cotingidae, this species is sexually dimorphic and the females have a pale grey head and body. Although there are not many documented observations of the nesting behavior of these birds, the males are known to perform elaborate mating displays for the females who then raise the young alone.
Region
Amazon Basin
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid lowland rainforest across much of the Amazon Basin, including Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Venezuela, and the Guianas. It is most frequently encountered in the mid to upper canopy of terra firme forests and along riverine varzea edges. The species favors fruiting trees and can appear at forest edges and canopy gaps where fruit is abundant. It generally avoids open habitats and heavily degraded forest, remaining tied to mature woodland structure.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 900 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The pompadour cotinga is a striking canopy frugivore of the Amazon, with males showing a deep burgundy body contrasted by bright white wings and a yellow iris. Females are much more cryptic, gray-brown and finely scaled, an example of strong sexual dimorphism common in cotingas. Males perform conspicuous display flights and calls from high perches, while females alone construct the nest and raise the young. By swallowing fruits whole and dispersing seeds, they play an important role in forest regeneration.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between canopy crowns
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs high in the canopy. Males display from prominent perches and may perform short, looping flights to attract females. Nesting is largely undertaken by the female, who builds a small, exposed cup and incubates and cares for the young alone.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are simple, clear whistles delivered from high perches, sometimes spaced by long pauses. Display flights may include soft mechanical wing sounds. Calls carry well through the canopy but are not continuous.
