Bird species of the Atlantic Forest (Mata Atlantica)

The Crowned Woodnymph Hummingbird (Thalurania colombica) is found from Central America to South America, where it prefers humid forests, forest edges, and tropical or subtropical mountain forests as its habitat. Male Crowned Woodnymphs have a bright green back, a violet head with a characteristic "crown" or hood that gives them their name. The throat can exhibit different colors depending on the species, often in shades of blue or turquoise. Females are generally less conspicuously colored. Like all hummingbirds, they primarily feed on nectar, which they extract from flowers using their specialized bills. In doing so, they play a crucial role in pollinating flowers. As of October 2023, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) does not currently classify the Crowned Woodnymph as endangered. However, local threats such as habitat loss due to deforestation and other human activities can impact the population (on the way #mataatlantica AR 10/2023)
The Crowned Woodnymph Hummingbird (Thalurania colombica) is found from Central America to South America, where it prefers humid forests, forest edges, and tropical or subtropical mountain forests as its habitat. Male Crowned Woodnymphs have a bright green back, a violet head with a characteristic „crown“ or hood that gives them their name. The throat can exhibit different colors depending on the species, often in shades of blue or turquoise. Females are generally less conspicuously colored. Like all hummingbirds, they primarily feed on nectar, which they extract from flowers using their specialized bills. In doing so, they play a crucial role in pollinating flowers. As of October 2023, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) does not currently classify the Crowned Woodnymph as endangered. However, local threats such as habitat loss due to deforestation and other human activities can impact the population (on the way #mataatlantica AR 10/2023)
The Squirrel Cuckoo (Piaya cayana) is a bird species belonging to the cuckoo family (Cuculidae), and it is native to large parts of South and Central America. Generally reported to have an inconspicuous appearance, I personally noticed its beautiful eyes and long tail feathers immediately. The closer I approached, the more it tried to hide among the branches. Similar to other cuckoo species, it does not have a fixed breeding season but rather relies on other bird species, into whose nests it lays its eggs. Some people consider its behavior of brood parasitism as detrimental. However, I am quite certain that, overall, it fulfills an important ecological function in its habitat (on the way #mataatlantica AR 10/2023)
The Squirrel Cuckoo (Piaya cayana) is a bird species belonging to the cuckoo family (Cuculidae), and it is native to large parts of South and Central America. Generally reported to have an inconspicuous appearance, I personally noticed its beautiful eyes and long tail feathers immediately. The closer I approached, the more it tried to hide among the branches. Similar to other cuckoo species, it does not have a fixed breeding season but rather relies on other bird species, into whose nests it lays its eggs. Some people consider its behavior of brood parasitism as detrimental. However, I am quite certain that, overall, it fulfills an important ecological function in its habitat (on the way #mataatlantica AR 10/2023)
The Smooth-billed Ani (Crotophaga ani), also known as the 'Greater Ani' or 'Common Ani,' belongs to the Cuckoo family (Cuculidae) and is native to various parts of Central and South America. It is not a brood parasite but primarily a cooperative breeder. Multiple females lay their eggs in a communal nest and collectively raise the young with other group members. Smooth-billed Anis are highly vocal, and their vocal repertoire is extensive. Group and partner communication involves a variety of clucking, chattering, meowing, and croaking sounds. So far, 13 different vocalizations have been associated with various social situations. Their diet includes insects and small animals such as reptiles, which they capture on the ground, in trees, in flight, and even on large mammals (e.g., ticks). Smooth-billed Anis live in groups that typically remain in their territories throughout the year (on the way #mataatlantica AR 09/2023)
The Smooth-billed Ani (Crotophaga ani), also known as the ‚Greater Ani‘ or ‚Common Ani,‘ belongs to the Cuckoo family (Cuculidae) and is native to various parts of Central and South America. It is not a brood parasite but primarily a cooperative breeder. Multiple females lay their eggs in a communal nest and collectively raise the young with other group members. Smooth-billed Anis are highly vocal, and their vocal repertoire is extensive. Group and partner communication involves a variety of clucking, chattering, meowing, and croaking sounds. So far, 13 different vocalizations have been associated with various social situations. Their diet includes insects and small animals such as reptiles, which they capture on the ground, in trees, in flight, and even on large mammals (e.g., ticks). Smooth-billed Anis live in groups that typically remain in their territories throughout the year (on the way #mataatlantica AR 09/2023)
The Great Kiskadee (Pitangus sulphuratus) is widespread in North America, Central America, and South America, where it is found in open landscapes. It is named after its facial mask, which is made up of bright yellow feathers. Its diet includes insects, small vertebrates, fruits, and occasionally carrion. It constructs its nests at lofty heights, and they are large and visible in all directions (on the way #mataatlantica AR 09/2023)
The Great Kiskadee (Pitangus sulphuratus) is widespread in North America, Central America, and South America, where it is found in open landscapes. It is named after its facial mask, which is made up of bright yellow feathers. Its diet includes insects, small vertebrates, fruits, and occasionally carrion. It constructs its nests at lofty heights, and they are large and visible in all directions (on the way #mataatlantica AR 09/2023)
The Palmentangare (Cyanoloxia glaucocaerulea), also known as the Blue-crowned Tanager, belongs to the tanager family and is primarily found in the tropical forests and wetlands of South America. According to information from scientific sources, this beautiful Palmentangare is a female, as the males are known for their striking appearance and possess brightly blue-colored head coverings. They are often encountered in groups and feed on fruits and insects. Their song is melodic and full of variations (on the way #mataatlantica AR 09/2023)
The Palmentangare (Cyanoloxia glaucocaerulea), also known as the Blue-crowned Tanager, belongs to the tanager family and is primarily found in the tropical forests and wetlands of South America. According to information from scientific sources, this beautiful Palmentangare is a female, as the males are known for their striking appearance and possess brightly blue-colored head coverings. They are often encountered in groups and feed on fruits and insects. Their song is melodic and full of variations (on the way #mataatlantica AR 09/2023)
The Black Vulture (Coragyps atratus) is a scavenging vulture found in North, Central, and South America. It primarily feeds on carrion, playing a crucial role in the ecosystem. This bird exhibits pronounced social behavior, nesting in colonies and laying precisely two eggs. Both parents are involved in incubation and feeding the offspring. With an impressive appearance, it can achieve a wingspan of up to 1.70 meters. Skillfully utilizing thermals, the Black Vulture soars in large circles while searching for food. Black Vultures have a long lifespan, with 20 years or more not being uncommon (on the way #mataatlantica AR 09/2023)
The Black Vulture (Coragyps atratus) is a scavenging vulture found in North, Central, and South America. It primarily feeds on carrion, playing a crucial role in the ecosystem. This bird exhibits pronounced social behavior, nesting in colonies and laying precisely two eggs. Both parents are involved in incubation and feeding the offspring. With an impressive appearance, it can achieve a wingspan of up to 1.70 meters. Skillfully utilizing thermals, the Black Vulture soars in large circles while searching for food. Black Vultures have a long lifespan, with 20 years or more not being uncommon (on the way #mataatlantica AR 09/2023)
The Rufous Hornero (Furnarius rufus), also known as Rosttöpfer, is widely distributed in South America, where it prefers open landscapes such as meadows and agricultural areas. It is a skilled builder, constructing sturdy, oval nests that resemble small pots and can withstand multiple breeding seasons. This makes its nesting site appealing to other bird species. This delicate bird is territorial and aggressively defends its nest against intruders. It is diurnal and primarily feeds on insects found on the ground (on the way #mataatlantica AR 09/2023)
The Rufous Hornero (Furnarius rufus), also known as Rosttöpfer, is widely distributed in South America, where it prefers open landscapes such as meadows and agricultural areas. It is a skilled builder, constructing sturdy, oval nests that resemble small pots and can withstand multiple breeding seasons. This makes its nesting site appealing to other bird species. This delicate bird is territorial and aggressively defends its nest against intruders. It is diurnal and primarily feeds on insects found on the ground (on the way #mataatlantica AR 09/2023)
The Light Brown Cachalote (Pseudoseisura unirufa) is a bird belonging to the family Cotingidae, which is found in the tropical regions of the Americas. The Cotingidae family is characterized by a large diversity, with over 60 genera and more than 200 species. These birds often stand out due to vibrant colors and distinctive feather features. Many of them possess impressive tail feathers, crests, or other decorative characteristics that may play a role, for example, in mate selection. Like many of its counterparts, the Light Brown Cachalote faces various threats, including habitat loss due to deforestation, hunting, and other human impacts (on the way #mataatlantica AR 09/2023)
The Light Brown Cachalote (Pseudoseisura unirufa) is a bird belonging to the family Cotingidae, which is found in the tropical regions of the Americas. The Cotingidae family is characterized by a large diversity, with over 60 genera and more than 200 species. These birds often stand out due to vibrant colors and distinctive feather features. Many of them possess impressive tail feathers, crests, or other decorative characteristics that may play a role, for example, in mate selection. Like many of its counterparts, the Light Brown Cachalote faces various threats, including habitat loss due to deforestation, hunting, and other human impacts (on the way #mataatlantica AR 09/2023)
The Chalk-browed Mockingbird (Mimus saturninus), also known as the White-throated Mockingbird, is a bird species from the Mimidae family, primarily found in South America. Its gray-brown plumage, white throat band, white eyebrows, and long, slightly forked tail give it a distinctive appearance. These Mockingbirds are well-known for their ability to mimic various bird calls in their surroundings. They feed on insects, fruits, berries, small vertebrates, and plant seeds, which they scatter far and wide, contributing to their dispersal (on the way #mataatlantica AR 09/2023)
The Chalk-browed Mockingbird (Mimus saturninus), also known as the White-throated Mockingbird, is a bird species from the Mimidae family, primarily found in South America. Its gray-brown plumage, white throat band, white eyebrows, and long, slightly forked tail give it a distinctive appearance. These Mockingbirds are well-known for their ability to mimic various bird calls in their surroundings. They feed on insects, fruits, berries, small vertebrates, and plant seeds, which they scatter far and wide, contributing to their dispersal (on the way #mataatlantica AR 09/2023)
The Red-rumped Cacique (Cacicus haemorrhous) is a bird species belonging to the family Icteridae and the genus Cacicus. Native to South America, it can be found in both tropical and subtropical forests, as well as in open areas, gardens, and agricultural lands. The Red-rumped Cacique is easily identifiable with its striking features, including a robust yellow beak, black plumage, and orange to red feathers on the rump. During the breeding season, males use loud calls and conspicuous flight maneuvers to attract females, and they often gather in groups. Their diet includes fruits, insects, and small vertebrates. The Cacique plays a crucial ecological role by eating fruits and subsequently depositing seeds in various locations, contributing to the dispersal of plants in its habitat (on the way #mataatlantica AR 09/2023)
The Red-rumped Cacique (Cacicus haemorrhous) is a bird species belonging to the family Icteridae and the genus Cacicus. Native to South America, it can be found in both tropical and subtropical forests, as well as in open areas, gardens, and agricultural lands. The Red-rumped Cacique is easily identifiable with its striking features, including a robust yellow beak, black plumage, and orange to red feathers on the rump. During the breeding season, males use loud calls and conspicuous flight maneuvers to attract females, and they often gather in groups. Their diet includes fruits, insects, and small vertebrates. The Cacique plays a crucial ecological role by eating fruits and subsequently depositing seeds in various locations, contributing to the dispersal of plants in its habitat (on the way #mataatlantica AR 09/2023)
The Southern Lapwing (Vanellus chilensis), also known as Chilean Lapwing or Vanellus chilensis, is a bird species belonging to the plover and lapwing family (Charadriidae). Its distribution ranges from Central Chile and Argentina to Bolivia, Paraguay, and Uruguay. The Chilean Lapwing prefers habitats like grasslands, wetlands, riverbanks, and agricultural areas, and it is often found in proximity to bodies of water. It is a medium-sized bird with striking bronzed upperparts that shimmer in the sun and a white belly. Notable features include its long, pointed wings and the black-and-white head with a crest of feathers on the forehead. It is known for its loud calls and acrobatic flight behavior, often involving characteristic zigzag patterns with its wings. It is territorial and can be aggressive when defending its territory. Its diet primarily consists of insects, worms, and other small invertebrates found in the ground. During the breeding season in spring, the female lays two to four eggs in a shallow depression in the ground, which may be lined with stones or plant materials, and both parent birds take turns incubating the eggs. The Southern Lapwing is considered threatened in some parts of its range, primarily due to habitat loss and human disturbance (on the way #mataatlantica AR 09/2023)
The Southern Lapwing (Vanellus chilensis), also known as Chilean Lapwing or Vanellus chilensis, is a bird species belonging to the plover and lapwing family (Charadriidae). Its distribution ranges from Central Chile and Argentina to Bolivia, Paraguay, and Uruguay. The Chilean Lapwing prefers habitats like grasslands, wetlands, riverbanks, and agricultural areas, and it is often found in proximity to bodies of water. It is a medium-sized bird with striking bronzed upperparts that shimmer in the sun and a white belly. Notable features include its long, pointed wings and the black-and-white head with a crest of feathers on the forehead. It is known for its loud calls and acrobatic flight behavior, often involving characteristic zigzag patterns with its wings. It is territorial and can be aggressive when defending its territory. Its diet primarily consists of insects, worms, and other small invertebrates found in the ground. During the breeding season in spring, the female lays two to four eggs in a shallow depression in the ground, which may be lined with stones or plant materials, and both parent birds take turns incubating the eggs. The Southern Lapwing is considered threatened in some parts of its range, primarily due to habitat loss and human disturbance (on the way #mataatlantica AR 09/2023)
Jacanas (Purple Gallinules) are widespread in the tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, where they primarily inhabit flooded areas and marshlands, especially when covered with abundant aquatic plants. Long toes and claws enable them to move on floating plants – even juveniles master this art of locomotion. During flight, the beautiful coloring of their wings in light green and yellow becomes apparent, and they possess a vivid yellow spur at the wing base, which is used for defense. Jacanas typically feed on insects and other invertebrates, rarely on seeds and grains. One curiosity is that they construct their nests well-hidden among water plants using parts of aquatic vegetation directly on the water surface. It may occur that females lay their eggs in multiple nests. This doesn't bother them because males are responsible for incubation and caring for the young. The chicks are "precocial" and leave the nest as soon as they can walk, though they don't move far. When warned by parents of danger, they submerge, leaving only their bills above the water for breathing. In the Pantanal, one of the largest wetlands on our planet, many of them assume this posture and fall prey to the Anaconda (on the way #mataatlantica AR 09/2023)
Jacanas (Purple Gallinules) are widespread in the tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, where they primarily inhabit flooded areas and marshlands, especially when covered with abundant aquatic plants. Long toes and claws enable them to move on floating plants – even juveniles master this art of locomotion. During flight, the beautiful coloring of their wings in light green and yellow becomes apparent, and they possess a vivid yellow spur at the wing base, which is used for defense. Jacanas typically feed on insects and other invertebrates, rarely on seeds and grains. One curiosity is that they construct their nests well-hidden among water plants using parts of aquatic vegetation directly on the water surface. It may occur that females lay their eggs in multiple nests. This doesn’t bother them because males are responsible for incubation and caring for the young. The chicks are „precocial“ and leave the nest as soon as they can walk, though they don’t move far. When warned by parents of danger, they submerge, leaving only their bills above the water for breathing. In the Pantanal, one of the largest wetlands on our planet, many of them assume this posture and fall prey to the Anaconda (on the way #mataatlantica AR 09/2023)
When consulting scientific sources about the Brown-breasted Parakeet (Pyrrhura calliptera), also known as the Maroon-tailed Parakeet or Red-tailed Parakeet, one learns that it is a medium-sized species of parrot native to South America, found at elevations of up to 2,800 meters. They primarily feed on fruits, seeds, nuts, berries, and flowers and play a crucial role in seed dispersal in their habitats. The survival of the Brown-breasted Parakeet is threatened by habitat loss and illegal wildlife trade, and numerous conservation efforts and protective measures are underway to safeguard this species (on the way #mataatlantica AR 09/2023)
When consulting scientific sources about the Brown-breasted Parakeet (Pyrrhura calliptera), also known as the Maroon-tailed Parakeet or Red-tailed Parakeet, one learns that it is a medium-sized species of parrot native to South America, found at elevations of up to 2,800 meters. They primarily feed on fruits, seeds, nuts, berries, and flowers and play a crucial role in seed dispersal in their habitats. The survival of the Brown-breasted Parakeet is threatened by habitat loss and illegal wildlife trade, and numerous conservation efforts and protective measures are underway to safeguard this species (on the way #mataatlantica AR 09/2023)
The Safranammer (Sicalis flaveola) is also known as the Saffron Finch. It is native to South America, where it can be found in grasslands, agricultural areas, and gardens. The males have a distinctive yellow plumage on the head and throat, while the rest is predominantly olive green. Females are less conspicuous and have a more brownish plumage. Saffron Finches are often found in groups and feed on seeds, fruits, and insects. They are lively birds, and their song is perceived as pleasant by humans (on the way #mataatlantica AR 10/2023)
The Safranammer (Sicalis flaveola) is also known as the Saffron Finch. It is native to South America, where it can be found in grasslands, agricultural areas, and gardens. The males have a distinctive yellow plumage on the head and throat, while the rest is predominantly olive green. Females are less conspicuous and have a more brownish plumage. Saffron Finches are often found in groups and feed on seeds, fruits, and insects. They are lively birds, and their song is perceived as pleasant by humans (on the way #mataatlantica AR 10/2023)
The Brown-chested Swallow (Hirundo simplex) is a species of swallow found in South America, such as Brazil, Bolivia, Paraguay, and Argentina. It primarily inhabits open landscapes and is commonly found near water sources like ponds, lakes, and rivers. Brown-chested swallows feed on insects that they catch in flight. They prefer to build their cup-shaped nests on elevated surfaces near water sources. Both parents are involved in raising the offspring (on the way #mataatlantica AR 09/2023)
The Brown-chested Swallow (Hirundo simplex) is a species of swallow found in South America, such as Brazil, Bolivia, Paraguay, and Argentina. It primarily inhabits open landscapes and is commonly found near water sources like ponds, lakes, and rivers. Brown-chested swallows feed on insects that they catch in flight. They prefer to build their cup-shaped nests on elevated surfaces near water sources. Both parents are involved in raising the offspring (on the way #mataatlantica AR 09/2023)
If one looks up information online about the Veilchenorganist (Euphonia violacea), not much more than the following information is available: specifically, that the organists (Euphonia) belong to the genus of neotropical songbirds within the finch family (Fringillidae) and, together with the five species of green organists (Chlorophonia), form the subfamily Euphoniinae. They inhabit grasslands and wooded areas in Central America, the Caribbean Islands, and South America. And they predominantly feed on fruits (on the way #mataatlantica AR 10/2023)
If one looks up information online about the Veilchenorganist (Euphonia violacea), not much more than the following information is available: specifically, that the organists (Euphonia) belong to the genus of neotropical songbirds within the finch family (Fringillidae) and, together with the five species of green organists (Chlorophonia), form the subfamily Euphoniinae. They inhabit grasslands and wooded areas in Central America, the Caribbean Islands, and South America. And they predominantly feed on fruits (on the way #mataatlantica AR 10/2023)
The Rufous-bellied Brilliant (Heliodoxa rubinoides) belongs to the hummingbird family (Trochilidae). Its range extends from the eastern Andes of Venezuela to western Brazil. It thrives in montane forests, forest edges, and secondary vegetation. The males are distinguished by their vibrant green feathers and a conspicuous rufous belly. They have a sparkling blue patch on their throat, which explains the name 'Brilliant Hummingbird.' Females are generally less colorful with greenish plumage. Like all hummingbirds, this species is known for its rapid flight maneuvers and the ability to hover in the air. They feed on nectar from flowers and capture insects to meet their protein needs. Brilliant hummingbirds are territorial and aggressively defend their territory against other males. Courtship flights and songs precede the reproductive act, while the female simultaneously constructs a small nest in a tree where she later lays her eggs and raises the young. Although Rufous-bellied Brilliants are currently considered 'least concern' (as of September 2023), these marvelous birds are threatened overall by habitat loss and the destruction of their natural environment (on the way #mataatlantica AR 09/2023)
The Rufous-bellied Brilliant (Heliodoxa rubinoides) belongs to the hummingbird family (Trochilidae). Its range extends from the eastern Andes of Venezuela to western Brazil. It thrives in montane forests, forest edges, and secondary vegetation. The males are distinguished by their vibrant green feathers and a conspicuous rufous belly. They have a sparkling blue patch on their throat, which explains the name ‚Brilliant Hummingbird.‘ Females are generally less colorful with greenish plumage. Like all hummingbirds, this species is known for its rapid flight maneuvers and the ability to hover in the air. They feed on nectar from flowers and capture insects to meet their protein needs. Brilliant hummingbirds are territorial and aggressively defend their territory against other males. Courtship flights and songs precede the reproductive act, while the female simultaneously constructs a small nest in a tree where she later lays her eggs and raises the young. Although Rufous-bellied Brilliants are currently considered ‚least concern‘ (as of September 2023), these marvelous birds are threatened overall by habitat loss and the destruction of their natural environment (on the way #mataatlantica AR 09/2023)
The White-throated Kingbird (Tyrannus albogularis) is a bird species belonging to the Tyrant Flycatcher family (Tyrannidae), which falls under the order of Passerines (Passeriformes). It is native to parts of North and Central America, preferring open forests, clearings, agricultural areas, and urban edges. With its predominantly gray upperparts, white throat and chest, and yellowish belly, it possesses a striking appearance. The White-throated Kingbird primarily feeds on insects, catching them in flight or plucking them from branches or wires. During courtship, it engages in impressive aerial maneuvers accompanied by loud calls (on the way #mataatlantica AR 09/2023)
The White-throated Kingbird (Tyrannus albogularis) is a bird species belonging to the Tyrant Flycatcher family (Tyrannidae), which falls under the order of Passerines (Passeriformes). It is native to parts of North and Central America, preferring open forests, clearings, agricultural areas, and urban edges. With its predominantly gray upperparts, white throat and chest, and yellowish belly, it possesses a striking appearance. The White-throated Kingbird primarily feeds on insects, catching them in flight or plucking them from branches or wires. During courtship, it engages in impressive aerial maneuvers accompanied by loud calls (on the way #mataatlantica AR 09/2023)
The Dominican Cardinal (Paroaria dominicana) belongs to the finch family and is an endemic species in Brazil. It is predominantly found in the rainforests, where it feeds on fruits and insects it finds in the trees. Its beautiful appearance has made it a commodity, with many of them ending up as caged birds. Illegal trade has made the cardinal bird an endangered species today (Mata Atlantica / State of Bahia, Brazil) (AR 09/2023)
The Dominican Cardinal (Paroaria dominicana) belongs to the finch family and is an endemic species in Brazil. It is predominantly found in the rainforests, where it feeds on fruits and insects it finds in the trees. Its beautiful appearance has made it a commodity, with many of them ending up as caged birds. Illegal trade has made the cardinal bird an endangered species today (Mata Atlantica / State of Bahia, Brazil) (AR 09/2023)
The White-throated Kingbird (Tyrannus albogularis) is a bird species belonging to the Tyrant Flycatcher family (Tyrannidae), which falls under the order of Passerines (Passeriformes). It is native to parts of North and Central America, preferring open forests, clearings, agricultural areas, and urban edges. With its predominantly gray upperparts, white throat and chest, and yellowish belly, it possesses a striking appearance. The White-throated Kingbird primarily feeds on insects, catching them in flight or plucking them from branches or wires. During courtship, it engages in impressive aerial maneuvers accompanied by loud calls (on the way #mataatlantica AR 10/2023)
The White-throated Kingbird (Tyrannus albogularis) is a bird species belonging to the Tyrant Flycatcher family (Tyrannidae), which falls under the order of Passerines (Passeriformes). It is native to parts of North and Central America, preferring open forests, clearings, agricultural areas, and urban edges. With its predominantly gray upperparts, white throat and chest, and yellowish belly, it possesses a striking appearance. The White-throated Kingbird primarily feeds on insects, catching them in flight or plucking them from branches or wires. During courtship, it engages in impressive aerial maneuvers accompanied by loud calls (on the way #mataatlantica AR 10/2023)
This beautiful, rain-tousled Guira Cuckoo, also known as 'Piaya cayana,' belongs to the Cuckoo family (Cuculidae). It is a medium-sized bird with a distinctive long tail and a robust beak. Its upper parts are gray, its belly is white, and it has a prominent black stripe behind the eyes. Representative of a cuckoo species, it is widespread in large parts of southern North America and extensive regions of South America. It inhabits a variety of habitats, from forests to gardens and open landscapes. Guira Cuckoos are often solitary but can also be social and feed on insects, small vertebrates, and fruits. Their characteristic call, a loud 'Guira guira,' is well heard in many regions. These birds are brood parasites, which means they lay their eggs in the nests of other bird species that then raise the Guira Cuckoo chicks. This behavior is similar to that of other cuckoos. They are also known for hunting other birds and raiding their nests. State of Bahia, Brazil (on the way #mataatlantica AR 09/2023)
This beautiful, rain-tousled Guira Cuckoo, also known as ‚Piaya cayana,‘ belongs to the Cuckoo family (Cuculidae). It is a medium-sized bird with a distinctive long tail and a robust beak. Its upper parts are gray, its belly is white, and it has a prominent black stripe behind the eyes. Representative of a cuckoo species, it is widespread in large parts of southern North America and extensive regions of South America. It inhabits a variety of habitats, from forests to gardens and open landscapes. Guira Cuckoos are often solitary but can also be social and feed on insects, small vertebrates, and fruits. Their characteristic call, a loud ‚Guira guira,‘ is well heard in many regions. These birds are brood parasites, which means they lay their eggs in the nests of other bird species that then raise the Guira Cuckoo chicks. This behavior is similar to that of other cuckoos. They are also known for hunting other birds and raiding their nests. State of Bahia, Brazil (on the way #mataatlantica AR 09/2023)

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