A magnificent bird adorns the treetops of South American mountain forests that are both subtropical and tropical, where the vegetation is abundant. The feathered beauty known as the green and black fruiteater is a sight to behold, a work of nature’s creativity.

These birds have adapted to the subtropical and tropical habitats on the eastern side of the Andes, and they are endemic to Venezuela, Ecuador, Peru, and Colombia. Fruits from the families Chloranthaceae (including Hedyosmum sp.), Ericaceae, and Melastomataceae make up the bulk of their diet. They mostly eat fruits, although there’s talk that these cotingas might eat some meat every once in a while.

The green and black fruiteater begins its mating season in the Central and Western mountain ranges between January and July, coinciding with the awakening of nature. During this period, they sit atop 1–2 meter tall shrubs and painstakingly construct cup-shaped nests out of moss and fragile roots. In these nests, the reproductive creativity is on full display as the female lays eggs that are creamy in color and have reddish-brown speckles.

Male green and black fruiteaters have contrasting green and mid-green upperparts and black heads, throats, and chests. Their wings include tertial feathers that are very graceful because of the pale tips. Their underparts are a yellowish color, frequently with green streaks, and they have a stunning yellow border that complements their dark chest. Similar to the male, the female doesn’t wear a yellow necklace but has a green head instead of a black one. The bright orange-red bill and legs of both sexes are a striking feature that enhances their overall look.

The population of the green and black fruiteater is very stable and is rated as “least concern” on the conservation status scale, despite the fact that they are incredibly beautiful. The magnificence of nature is embodied in this awe-inspiring bird. Watch the linked video to get a closer look at the green and black fruiteater and marvel at the enchantment of this fascinating animal.