White-bearded Manakin

Overview

The white-bearded manakin (Manacus manacus) is a small passerine bird that breeds in tropical South America. It is a fairly common species found across a wide range, classified as of 'least concern' by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.

Identification

• Small, plump bird measuring approximately 10.7 centimetres (4.2 in) in length.
• Adult males feature a black crown, upper back, wings, and tail, with otherwise white plumage.
• Females and young males are olive-green, resembling female golden-headed manakins.
• Distinctive orange legs are present in both sexes.
• Vocalisations include a trilled musical 'peeerr' and a loud wing snap during display.

Habitat

This species inhabits forests, secondary growth, and plantations. Its range covers Colombia, Venezuela, and Trinidad south to Bolivia and northern Argentina, with significant populations in the Amazon Basin, the Guianas, and the Orinoco River drainage.

Diet

White-bearded manakins feed on fruit, as well as some insects and spiders. Young birds are primarily fed regurgitated fruit mixed with some insects by their parents.

Did you know?

Males perform a spectacular communal display at a lek on the forest floor, involving rapid leaps between sticks and the ground accompanied by loud wing snaps and whirring. Groups of up to 70 birds may perform together, with the largest leks occurring in Trinidad.