Chestnut-capped Piha
NameChestnut-capped Piha
Common NameChestnut-capped Piha
Scientific NameLipaugus weberi
FamilyCotingidae
Wingspan (cm)37
Length (cm)24.5
Weight (g)75
Plumage DetailsMales are primarily grey with a distinctive chestnut-colored crown (cap). The underparts are a slightly paler grey. Females and immature birds are generally duller grey, lacking the chestnut cap, and may show a brownish wash on the wings or underparts. Both sexes have a dark bill and a striking orange-yellow iris.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its loud, ringing, and far-carrying calls, often described as a clear 'whee-oh' or 'whee-ooo' sound. These vocalizations are typically repeated and are a key way to locate the species in its dense habitat.
Primary Dietfrugivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statuscritically-endangered
Geographic RangeThe Chestnut-capped Piha has an extremely restricted geographic range, being endemic to a small area within the central Andes of Colombia, specifically in the Antioquia department.
Identifying FeaturesGrey plumage (males with chestnut cap), Loud, distinctive 'piha' call, Orange-yellow iris, Restricted range in Colombian cloud forests
Description
The Chestnut-capped Piha is a medium-sized, rather plain grey cotinga endemic to a small region of Colombia. Males are distinguished by a prominent chestnut crown, while females and immatures are duller and lack this cap. This species is known for its loud, far-carrying vocalizations within its montane forest habitat.
