manakins

Manakins are small passerine birds belonging to the family Pipridae, native to the tropical Americas. They range from southern Mexico and Central America into the Caribbean and parts of northern and central South America, occupying a variety of forest habitats. Most species prefer the understory and mid-story of tropical forests, edges, and secondary growth, though some can be found in drier woodlands or near streams. They are typically resident or locally sedentary, with activity concentrated during the day.

Physically, manakins are compact birds with short wings and relatively short tails. Adult males are often strikingly colored during the breeding season, displaying bright reds, greens, yellows, and iridescent tones, while females usually have more subdued olive-brown or gray plumage. Plumage and size vary considerably across the roughly 60 or more species. Their strong legs and perching feet are adapted to manoeuvring through dense vegetation as they forage.

Diet and foraging behavior consist mainly of fruit and insects. Manakins typically glean prey from foliage or seize it in flight, and several species are known to follow mixed-species flocks or exploit fruiting trees in the canopy and understory.

Reproduction is notable for lek-based courtship in many species. Males gather in display areas and perform elaborate visual and vocal displays, often including rapid wing snaps, tail movements, and distinctive calls to attract females. Females select a mate and undertake nest building, incubation, and parental care on their own, with males contributing little beyond territory defense or occasional displays in some species.

Conservation status varies by species, with habitat loss from deforestation posing ongoing threats in parts of the range. Manakins are widely studied for their diverse courtship behaviors and sexual dimorphism.