Description: It shows sexual dimorphism. The male is blue, with black head, wings, and tail, and a red crown. The central tail feathers are a bit longer and narrower. The female is olive green, with a slightly lighter belly. Juveniles are usually similar to the female in coloration and change their plumage as they age. The first noticeable feature is the red crown.
Habitat: Middle and lower strata of the Atlantic Forest.
Feeding: Omnivorous. It feeds on insects and fruits.
Distribution: Northeast Argentina, southeast Brazil, and southeast Paraguay.
Behavior: Easy to hear. It has a very particular courtship. This courtship involves a complex dance where several males gather in a lek or arena, typically a horizontal branch or vine, in front of a female who watches attentively.
The males group together side by side, all facing the same direction. The male closest to the female starts the dance by performing a quick flight in front of her and returning to the last position in the line. At that moment, the next male in line will display in front of the female, and this will continue until all participating males have displayed. This sequence repeats for a considerable amount of time.
This dance is accompanied by a buzzing sound. Towards the end of the courtship, everything speeds up, with movements and buzzing, and will conclude with the alpha male´s display, who performs a final flight accompanied by several loud and consecutive sounds.
Generally, there are young males or even adult males watching from nearby branches or participating in the dance as practice.
It is the female who chooses one of the males to mate with, which, in most cases, is the so-called "alpha male."
Author of this compilation:
María Alejandra Sosa - 09/03/2024