Handsome Fruiteater
NameHandsome Fruiteater
Common NameHandsome Fruiteater
Scientific NamePipreola formosa
FamilyCotingidae
Wingspan (cm)28
Length (cm)17.5
Weight (g)45
Plumage DetailsMales have a glossy black head, a bright orange bill, a vivid red throat patch, and bright yellow breast and belly. Their back, wings, and tail are dark green. Females are duller, primarily green with yellow streaking on the underparts and lacking the black head and red throat.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include high-pitched, thin, descending whistles, often described as 'pseee' notes, sometimes given in a series.
Primary Dietfrugivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the coastal mountain ranges of northern Venezuela, found in humid montane forests.
Identifying Featuresglossy black head (male), bright red throat patch (male), bright yellow underparts, dark green upperparts, orange bill
Description
The Handsome Fruiteater is a vibrant, medium-sized cotinga known for its striking plumage. Males feature a glossy black head, bright red throat, and brilliant yellow underparts contrasting with green upperparts. It typically perches quietly in the mid-canopy of montane forests.
