Cotingidae

Cotingidae is a family of passerine birds commonly known as cotingas. They are in the suborder Tyranni (the suboscines) within the order Passeriformes and are native to the Neotropical region, from Mexico to northern Argentina, with the greatest diversity in the Amazon Basin and Andean foothills.

Adults range in size and often show strong sexual dimorphism. Males frequently display bright colors or bold patterns—ranging from metallic greens to rich blacks or reds—whereas females are typically duller, pale, or olive. The type genus Cotinga gives its name to the family; other well-known members include Rupicola (cock-of-the-rocks) and Procnias (bellbirds).

Cotingas are primarily frugivorous, feeding on a variety of fruit items; some species take insects. They are usually found in forest canopies or edges, and many species are shy or secretive. Courtship displays are elaborate in some lineages, with males performing fluttering flights, vocal performances, or impressive plumage displays during courtship.

Nests are cup-shaped and placed in trees. Clutch size varies; eggs are incubated by both parents in many species, and the young fledge after a relatively short fledgling period.

The group includes several dozen species across multiple genera. As with many tropical birds, habitat loss and fragmentation threaten some cotinga species; others remain widespread and common.