The spectacularly bizarre Andean Cock-of-the-rock Rupicola peruvianus is perhaps the most popularly recognised bird of the cloud forests of the Andes Mountains of South America, and high up on the of “birds you have to see before you die” list.
The national bird of Peru, this medium-sized passerine species is readily identified by its fan-shaped crest and brilliant orange-red plumage, both of which are evident to a lesser degree even in the duller female.
It occurs all the way from Venezuela to Bolivia, in montane forest, especially in ravines and along streams, from 500 to 2,400m above sea level.
The Andean Cock-of-the-rock is a highly polygamous species in which no pair-bonding has been recorded. The males’ way of attracting the female’s attention is another standout feature of this incredible bird. Males gather in communal leks typically located in steep forested ravines. 8 to 14 males display in each lek and segregate themselves into approximately three different display areas comprised of about 2 to 4 males. Within these smaller groups, they display toward each other. Females observe these competing displays in a central area within the “arena” of the lek. The displays typically occur early in the morning and late in the afternoons.
Displays consist of wing flaps, head bobbing and bowing, arching push-ups and abrupt facial movements along with loud crowing vocalizations and beak clapping. The females choose their mate by pecking at his neck after watching the displays. Once they have mated, the female departs and the male returns to the arena to continue displaying in the hope of attracting another female.
Their name is derived from their preference for rocks and ledges as substrates for their mud cup nests. The females construct these nests in locations inaccessible to predators. In order to ensure that their nests adhere to the surfaces upon which they are built, they utilize a combination of mud and saliva. These nests are located fairly close to the location of the lek where the female typically finds a mate. Clutch size is believed to be 2 eggs, and only the female incubates for about 25 to 28 days.
Fruits and insects are the largest components of the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock’s diet. They typically eat high protein fruits. Additionally, it has been reported that they feed on small amphibians, reptiles, and there have even been rare sightings of consumption of small mice.
Luckily these birds are not globally threatened. They occur in several protected areas, like Cueva de los Guácharos National Park in Colombia, Podocarpus National Park in Ecuador, and Manu Wildlife Reserve in Peru. Their preference for steep, thickly vegetated ravines and streamsides ensures little human disturbance.
To see this incredible bird and many others almost equally fascinating and colourful, join us on a Nature Travel Birding trip to Peru in August 2020 Not only will you see more than 500 species of birds, along with a chance of spotting a Jaguar, but you will also visit iconic Machu Picchu!
For more information, browse to Peru Birding our our site or talk to us on info@naturetravelbirding.com.