Kinglet Manakin

Overview

The kinglet manakin, scientifically known as Machaeropterus regulus, is a small passerine bird in the family Pipridae. It is endemic to Brazil and currently classified as a species of Least Concern by the IUCN.

Identification

• Adult males feature a bright red forehead, crown, and nape, contrasting with grayish olive-green faces and olive-green upperparts.
• Underparts are whitish with thin red-brown stripes on the breast, belly, and flanks, while thighs are red; females lack the red head coloration and have streaking restricted to the belly and flanks.
• Size ranges from 9 to 10.3 cm in length, with a weight between 6.4 and 12.5 g.
• Both sexes possess deep red or red-brown irises, a dark horn to blackish maxilla, and a paler mandible.
• The vocalization is described as a "mid-high, short, catlike tjew".

Habitat

Found in coastal southeastern Brazil, ranging from northeastern Bahia south to at least northern Rio de Janeiro state. The species inhabits humid lowland forests, including secondary forest and restinga, typically at elevations between sea level and 200 m, though locally reaching up to 600 m.

Did you know?

Males display at a lek by hanging head-downward on a vertical stem, turning to and fro while spreading their crown feathers and fanning their tails. Its population has undoubtedly been significantly reduced by the extensive destruction of Atlantic coastal forest, despite the species being considered rare to uncommon and present in several protected areas.