Spangled Cotinga song and calls

Birdsong and calls are often the easiest way to identify the Spangled Cotinga, especially when the bird is hidden in dense foliage. Below is what to listen for.

Song

The male's song is a distinctive, far-carrying, and somewhat mournful whistle, often described as a clear, rising 'wheee-oooo' or 'peee-ooooo', sometimes with a slight tremolo. It can be repeated at intervals.

Calls

Calls include a sharp 'chip' or 'tsip' note, and a more emphatic 'whip' or 'whip-whip'. Females and juveniles may have softer, less distinct calls.

When they vocalize

Males vocalize most frequently during the breeding season, typically from high perches within the forest canopy, often in the early morning or late afternoon.

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