Andean Cock-of-the-rock
NameAndean Cock-of-the-rock
Common NameAndean Cock-of-the-rock
Scientific NameRupicola peruvianus
FamilyCotingidae
Wingspan (cm)33
Length (cm)31
Weight (g)235
Plumage DetailsMales are predominantly brilliant scarlet-orange with black wings and tail, and pale grey secondary feathers. They possess a large, erect, fan-shaped crest that covers the bill. Females are duller, typically brownish-orange or rufous, with a smaller crest.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations are generally harsh, guttural croaks, grunts, and whistles, often given during lek displays. They can also produce a distinctive 'squeak-ooh' call.
Primary Dietfrugivore
Primary Habitatshumid montane forest, cloud forest, subtropical forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the cloud forests of the Andes mountains, from Venezuela and Colombia south through Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia.
Identifying Featureslarge fan-shaped crest (male), brilliant scarlet-orange plumage (male), black wings and tail (male), pale grey secondary feathers (male), sexual dimorphism
Description
This striking medium-sized passerine is renowned for the male's brilliant scarlet plumage and prominent, disc-like crest. Males engage in elaborate lek displays to attract females, who are duller in coloration. They are typically found in the humid cloud forests of the Andes.
