From Opus

Revision as of 17:24, 20 September 2007

Iodopleura fusca

Photo by alexandre vinot
Locality: Paracou, French Guiana.

Description

Total length 12 cm (5 in). A plump, dark brownish-black bird with white rump, central underparts and crissum. The males' purple flank-tufts are often hidden under the wings, and the otherwise identical females lack them completely.

Identification

Virtually unmistakable, but superficially similar to the Swallow-wing. No overlap with the Buff-throated Purpletuft or the White-browed Purpletuft.

Distribution

North-eastern South America in SE Venezuela, the Guianas and far N. Brazil. As far as known, uncommon to very rare, but easily overlooked due to its unobtrusive canopy life.

Habitat

Canopy and edge of humid lowland forest.

Behavior

In pairs or small groups. Feeds on berries and some insects. As other purpletufts, it is typically seen perched high on exposed branches.

Taxonomy

Monotypic. Previously considered to be a cotinga (Cotingidae), but today typically placed in Tityridae (Tityras & allies).

External Links

• View more images of Dusky Purpletuft in the gallery