Velvety Manakin
NameVelvety Manakin
Common NameVelvety Manakin
Scientific NamePipra coronata
FamilyPipridae
Wingspan (cm)19
Length (cm)11.5
Weight (g)14
Plumage DetailsAdult males are entirely velvety black with a brilliant, iridescent sky-blue crown. Their bill is pale grey, and legs are dark grey. Females are dull olive-green overall, with a paler, yellowish-green belly and no blue crown.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include sharp 'chip' or 'tsip' notes, often given singly or in short series. They also produce buzzing 'zzzzzt' sounds and mechanical wing snaps during their complex courtship displays.
Primary Dietfrugivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThe Velvety Manakin (subspecies *Pipra coronata velutina*) is found in the humid lowland forests of western Ecuador and northwestern Peru. The broader species, Blue-crowned Manakin (*Pipra coronata*), ranges across much of the Amazon basin in South America.
Identifying FeaturesIridescent blue crown (male), Velvety black body (male), Small size, Pale bill, Forest habitat
Description
The Velvety Manakin is a small, stocky passerine bird, with males displaying striking iridescent blue crowns against a velvety black body. These birds are known for their elaborate courtship displays and agile movements within the forest understory.
