Andean Cock-of-the-rock
Image: jorge1884 (cc-by-nc)
NameAndean Cock-of-the-rock
Common NameAndean Cock-of-the-rock
Scientific NameRupicola peruvianus
FamilyCotingidae
Wingspan (cm)34.5
Length (cm)31
Weight (g)235
Plumage DetailsAdult males are characterized by brilliant orange plumage on the head, neck, breast, and mantle, including a large, erect, disc-like crest that almost completely covers the bill. The lower back, wings, and tail are black, with prominent white secondary feathers forming a broad band on the wing. Females are duller, mostly rufous-brown.
Vocalization / CallMales produce a variety of loud, guttural calls, grunts, and whistles during their elaborate lek displays, often described as 'wok-wok-wok' or 'kwaaah' sounds.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsmontane forest, cloud forest, ravines, rocky outcrops
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the humid montane cloud forests of the Andes mountains, ranging from Venezuela through Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia.
Identifying FeaturesBrilliant orange plumage (male), Large, disc-like crest (male), Black wings and tail with white secondary feathers (male), Stocky build, White eye with black pupil
Description
The Andean Cock-of-the-rock is a striking medium-sized passerine, famous for the male's brilliant orange plumage and prominent, disc-like crest. Males engage in elaborate lek displays to attract females, often found in humid montane forests.
