Saffron-crested Tyrant-Manakin

Overview

The saffron-crested tyrant-manakin, Neopelma chrysocephalum, is a visually striking small bird in the family Pipridae. It is endemic to the lowland tropical rainforests of South America.

Identification

• Small, short-tailed bird measuring around 10 to 11 centimeters in length.
• Light yellowish breast with a distinctive saffron yellow crest that stands on the head.
• Black wings and tail featuring yellow markings, with dark eyes and a short, stout beak.
• Emits a nasal call with repeated sounds such as 'wraaang', 'skeeehh', and 'eerhhh'.

Habitat

Found in tropical forests and shrubland across the Guianas, southern Venezuela, and the northwestern Amazon Basin, including parts of Brazil, Peru, and Bolivia. Populations often inhabit sandy, nutrient-poor forests and forage in the understory and midstory.

Diet

Feeds mainly on insects, small fruits, and berries. It catches insects using short, rapid movements toward leaves and branches.

Did you know?

Although a manakin, its courtship display is relatively understated compared to other species, as males perform solitary displays 40–60 metres apart while making short upward leaps and producing nasal, twanging calls.