Rupicola peruvianus
The Andean Cock-of-the-rock, *Rupicola peruvianus*, is an iconic and strikingly beautiful passerine belonging to the Cotingidae family, closely related to the Guianan Cock-of-the-rock. Males are instantly recognizable by their brilliant scarlet-orange or fiery red plumage, contrasting sharply with velvety black wings and tail, and a magnificent, disk-like crest that almost completely obscures their bill. They measure about 30-32 cm (12-13 inches) in length and weigh 200-260 grams (7-9 oz). Fe...
This species primarily inhabits humid, subtropical to tropical montane cloud forests and forest ravines, preferring areas with rocky outcrops or cliffs. They are typically found at elevations ranging from 500 to 2,400 meters, occasionally reaching up to 2,900 meters.
Their diet primarily consists of a variety of fruits, especially figs and berries, making them important seed dispersers in their ecosystem. They also supplement their diet with insects and small vertebrates, particularly during the breeding season.
Andean Cock-of-the-rocks are diurnal, spending their days foraging and, for males, performing elaborate courtship displays. Males are renowned for their spectacular, polygynous lekking behavior, gathering in communal display grounds where they posture, bow, call, and snap their bills to attract f...
The Andean Cock-of-the-rock is a resident species found exclusively in the cloud forests of the Andes Mountains in South America. Its extensive range stretches from western Venezuela and central Colombia, through Ecuador and Peru, and south into central Bolivia. Within this vast territory, four s...
Least Concern
- The male's distinctive crest is so large it almost completely covers its bill. - It is the national bird of Peru, symbolizing the country's rich biodiversity. - The genus name "Rupicola" means "rock-dweller" or "dweller of the rocks," a nod to their preference for rocky habitats. - Males gather...