White-bearded Manakin
NameWhite-bearded Manakin
Common NameWhite-bearded Manakin
Scientific NameManacus manacus
FamilyPipridae
Wingspan (cm)16
Length (cm)10.7
Weight (g)18
Plumage DetailsMales have a glossy black cap, back, and wings, sharply contrasting with a pure white throat, chest, and a broad white collar (the 'beard'). The belly is greyish-white, and the undertail coverts are white. Females are duller, predominantly olive-green.
Vocalization / CallKnown for a variety of sharp, snapping, and buzzing sounds produced by modified wing feathers during courtship displays. Vocalizations include a sharp 'chip' or 'tchip' and a buzzing 'zzzzzzzt' call.
Primary Dietfrugivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across northern South America, including Trinidad and Tobago, Colombia, Venezuela, the Guianas, Brazil, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia.
Identifying FeaturesStriking black and white plumage (male), Bright orange legs, Small, stocky body, Lekking behavior with elaborate, noisy displays
Description
This small, stocky passerine is known for the male's striking black and white plumage and elaborate courtship displays. Males gather at leks to perform rapid, noisy dances, snapping their wings to attract females. They are primarily found in the understory of tropical forests.
