Green-and-black Fruiteater
NameGreen-and-black Fruiteater
Common NameGreen-and-black Fruiteater
Scientific NamePipreola riefferii
FamilyCotingidae
Wingspan (cm)30
Length (cm)18.5
Weight (g)45
Plumage DetailsMales have a glossy black head, throat, and upper breast, with a prominent bright yellow stripe extending from behind the eye down the side of the neck. The back is emerald green, transitioning to a bright yellow belly. The tail is dark, and the legs are bright red. Females are similar but have a green head and throat, often with some black mottling.
Vocalization / CallIts call is typically a series of high-pitched, thin whistles or a rapid, trilling 'swee-swee-swee' or 'psit-psit-psit' often given from within dense foliage.
Primary Dietfrugivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the Andes mountains of South America, specifically from Venezuela through Colombia, Ecuador, and northern Peru.
Identifying Featuresglossy black head (male), bright yellow stripe on neck, emerald green back, bright yellow belly, red legs, red bill with black tip
Description
This striking cotinga features a glossy black head and upper breast, contrasting sharply with a vibrant emerald green back and bright yellow underparts. It is typically found in humid montane forests, where it forages for fruits and some insects, often perching quietly within the canopy.
