The yellow-headed manakin is a Vulnerable species of bird in the family Pipridae. It is found in Colombia and Ecuador.
Region
Northwest Andes (Colombia and Ecuador)
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid subtropical to montane forests on the western and foothill slopes of the Andes. It favors mature forest with dense understory, mossy ravines, and forest edges, but may use secondary growth near intact habitat. Birds often keep to mid-story and lower canopy where fruiting trees are available. Habitat loss from agriculture, logging, and human expansion is the primary constraint on its range.
Altitude Range
600–2000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A shy montane manakin, the yellow-headed manakin is best known for the male’s bright yellow head contrasting with a black body. It occupies humid Andean forests of Colombia and Ecuador and is threatened by deforestation and fragmentation. Like many manakins, it relies heavily on fruit and helps disperse seeds in the understory. Conservation of mid-elevation cloud forests is crucial for its persistence.
Yellow-headed manakin
Temperament
shy and inconspicuous
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, agile in understory
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly or in pairs, sometimes joining mixed-species flocks while foraging. Breeding is polygynous as in most manakins, with males displaying to attract females while females build the nest and rear the young. Nests are small cups placed in low to mid-level vegetation.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are soft, thin whistles and simple phrases delivered from within dense foliage. Calls can be easily overlooked in the soundscape of cloud forests, contributing to the species’ inconspicuous reputation.
