Nothocercus nigrocapillus
The Hooded Tinamou (Nothocercus nigrocapillus) is a medium-sized, ground-dwelling bird belonging to the ancient order Tinamiformes, a lineage closely related to the flightless ratites like ostriches and emus, despite their ability to fly. Averaging 33-36 cm (13-14 in) in length and weighing approximately 520-580 grams (18-20 oz), this species exhibits a cryptic plumage designed for life in dense forest undergrowth. Its most distinctive field mark is the glossy black cap, which contrasts sharp...
Resides primarily in humid, cool montane cloud forests and evergreen forests, typically found at elevations between 1,000 and 2,500 meters (3,300-8,200 ft).
Primarily feeds on a variety of invertebrates, including insects, their larvae, and spiders, supplemented with seeds, small fruits, and berries found by gleaning and scratching through the forest floor.
The Hooded Tinamou is an exceptionally shy and terrestrial species, spending the majority of its life foraging silently within the dense undergrowth of its forest habitat. It is largely diurnal, though it may be most active during dawn and dusk, retreating to hidden roosting spots in dense vegeta...
The Hooded Tinamou is a non-migratory resident species found exclusively in the Andean cloud forests of South America. Its range is fragmented, extending from the Andes of western Venezuela, through the Central and Western Cordilleras of Colombia, into Ecuador, and south to the Cordillera Azul in...
Vulnerable
- Despite their chicken-like appearance, Hooded Tinamous are more closely related to ancient flightless birds like ostriches and emus than to galliforms. - Their loud, whirring wingbeats when taking flight are often the only sign a birder gets of their presence, as they are incredibly cryptic. - ...