Cotingas

Cotingas, belonging to the family Cotingidae, are colorful forest birds native to Central and South America, ranging from the fiery-throated fruiteater at just over 12 cm to the large Amazonian umbrellabird reaching up to 51 cm. These primarily fruit-eating birds exhibit a variety of social structures, with roughly half the species showing biparental care while others have males that do not assist in raising young. These males often have elaborate courtship displays, usually performed in leks, and tend to have vibrant plumage and sometimes striking ornaments like crests or wattles. Females are usually less conspicuous. Nest types among cotingas vary, with many species laying a single egg in minimalist nests, whereas others build more robust structures. Their habitats range from deserts to humid forests, and they face significant threats due to habitat loss. The taxonomy of the family, proposed by Charles Lucien Bonaparte in 1849, includes 66 species across 24 genera, subdivided into five suggested subfamilies according to a study based on molecular phylogenetics. Notable genera include Pipreola with various fruiteaters, Rupicola known for the cock-of-the-rock species, and Cephalopterus, encompassing the distinct umbrellabirds. Many other cotinga species have unique characteristics and contribute to the family's diversity. Unfortunately, the family now sees some genera previously included within Cotingidae placed in the family Tityridae instead.