Manacus aurantiacus
The Orange-collared Manakin (Manacus aurantiacus) is a dazzling, diminutive passerine bird endemic to the humid lowland forests of Costa Rica and western Panama. Males are instantly recognizable by their striking, vivid orange collar and crown, contrasted with a glossy black cap, mantle, and wings, and bright yellow underparts, making them a standout among tropical avifauna. Measuring approximately 10 cm (4 inches) in length and weighing a mere 16-19 grams, their small size belies their elabo...
This species thrives in humid evergreen lowland and foothill forests, including secondary growth and dense thickets, typically from sea level up to 700-1000 meters elevation.
Primarily frugivorous, consuming a variety of small, soft-skinned fruits and berries, supplemented with a small number of insects.
Orange-collared Manakins are diurnal and largely solitary outside of breeding activities, often foraging inconspicuously in the understory. The males are famously known for their intricate and energetic courtship displays, gathering at communal display grounds called leks, where they meticulously...
The Orange-collared Manakin is a non-migratory resident species with a relatively restricted geographical distribution, confined to the humid Pacific slope of Central America. Its range extends from west-central Costa Rica, specifically from the Nicoya Peninsula southwards, through the majority o...
Least Concern
- Male Orange-collared Manakins possess highly modified wing feathers that they rub together at incredible speeds to produce loud 'snapping' and 'whirring' sounds during courtship. - Their elaborate lekking display involves a series of rapid jumps, slides, and even a 'moonwalk-like' backward shuf...