Neopelma chrysolophum
The Serra do Mar Tyrant-Manakin (Neopelma chrysolophum) is a striking yet often elusive neotropical passerine, a jewel of Brazil's Atlantic Forest. This small bird measures approximately 12-12.5 cm in length and weighs a delicate 10-12 grams. Its appearance is characterized by olive-green upperparts, contrasting with pale yellowish-white underparts, and a distinguishing greyish face. The most remarkable field mark, though frequently concealed, is a brilliant golden-yellow crown patch, which g...
This species exclusively inhabits the understory of humid primary and mature secondary evergreen Atlantic Forest, from lowlands up to elevations of 1600 meters. It primarily prefers undisturbed forest interiors, often near streams.
The diet of the Serra do Mar Tyrant-Manakin consists predominantly of small insects and other arthropods, which it captures by gleaning from foliage or making aerial sallies.
The Serra do Mar Tyrant-Manakin is typically observed alone or occasionally joining mixed-species foraging flocks, diligently searching the forest understory for prey. Its primary foraging strategy involves making short, quick sallies from low perches to snatch insects from foliage or in mid-air....
The Serra do Mar Tyrant-Manakin is an endemic resident of the Atlantic Forest biome in southeastern Brazil, with a highly restricted and fragmented distribution. Its breeding range encompasses coastal and interior mountain ranges, including the Serra do Mar and its associated cordilleras, spannin...
Near Threatened
- Despite its common name, the Serra do Mar Tyrant-Manakin is not a true manakin (family Pipridae) but rather a member of the tyrant-flycatcher family (Tyrannidae). - Its scientific name, *chrysolophum*, directly translates from Greek as "golden crest," referring to its brilliant, but often conce...