Snowy Cotinga
NameSnowy Cotinga
Common NameSnowy Cotinga
Scientific NameCarpodectes nitidus
FamilyCotingidae
Wingspan (cm)32.5
Length (cm)20
Weight (g)57.5
Plumage DetailsAdult males are entirely pure white, including their body, wings, and tail, with contrasting dark eyes and a pale bluish-gray bill. Females are duller, grayish-white overall, with darker gray wings and tail.
Vocalization / CallGenerally a quiet bird, the male Snowy Cotinga produces soft, high-pitched whistles or trills, sometimes described as a 'swee-swee-swee' or 'tseet-tseet' sound. They also have soft, purring notes.
Primary Dietfrugivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in Central America, primarily on the Caribbean slope from eastern Honduras through Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and into western Panama. Also occurs on the Pacific slope in parts of Costa Rica and Panama.
Identifying FeaturesPure white plumage (male), Dark eyes, Pale bluish-gray bill, Short tail, Prefers lowland tropical forests
Description
The Snowy Cotinga is a striking medium-sized passerine, with males exhibiting brilliant pure white plumage. These birds typically perch quietly in the canopy of lowland forests, feeding primarily on fruits. They are known for their relatively subdued vocalizations.
