Lance-tailed Manakin

Overview

The lance-tailed manakin (Chiroxiphia lanceolata) is a small passerine bird found in tropical Central and South America. It is a fairly common species with a stable population, rated as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification

• Adult males have black plumage with a red crown and sky-blue back, while females and juveniles are olive-green with paler underparts.
• Both sexes possess bright orange legs and two central tail feathers elongated into a distinct spike.
• The bird is compact, measuring approximately 13.5 cm in length and weighing around 17.5 g.
• Vocalisations include a 'Toe-LEE-do' call, a 'curry-ho', and a frog-like buzzing croak produced by displaying males.

Habitat

This species breeds in dry and moist deciduous forests rather than rainforests, ranging from Costa Rica to northern Venezuela.

Diet

Lance-tailed manakins feed on fruit and some insects.

Did you know?

The breeding display is cooperative rather than competitive, with two males perching on a bare stick and jumping up and down alternately.