Monasa atra
The Black Nunbird (Monasa atra) is a striking Neotropical puffbird, instantly recognizable by its entirely glossy black plumage sharply contrasted with a thick, bright coral-red bill and a pale, often whitish, eye. These medium-sized birds measure approximately 25-29 cm in length and weigh between 60-80 grams, presenting a relatively large-headed, somewhat chunky silhouette. Unlike many of its solitary relatives in the Bucconidae family, the Black Nunbird is notably social, frequently observe...
This species primarily inhabits the understory and mid-story of humid lowland tropical rainforests, secondary growth, and forest edges. It is typically found at elevations ranging from sea level up to approximately 1000 meters.
Their diet consists primarily of large insects, such as dragonflies, cicadas, beetles, and moths, which they capture by sallying from a perch. They occasionally supplement their insectivorous diet with small fruits.
Black Nunbirds are diurnal birds, spending their days actively foraging and interacting within their social groups. They are classic "sit-and-wait" predators, employing a sallying technique where they perch patiently on a branch, then dart out to snatch flying insects in mid-air or glean them fro...
The Black Nunbird is a resident species found exclusively in the lowland tropical rainforests of northern South America. Its extensive distribution encompasses the vast Amazon Basin, stretching from southeastern Colombia and eastern Ecuador, through eastern Peru, northern Bolivia, and southern Ve...
Least Concern
- The Black Nunbird is one of the most social species within the puffbird family (Bucconidae), often seen in small flocks rather than solitary pairs. - They earn the "puffbird" moniker from their often fluffy, dishevelled appearance, especially around the head. - Unlike many birds that build open...