Appearance

The Guianan Cock-of-the-Rock is such a bird that can be easily recognized by birders of all levels. It belongs to one of the most commonly photographed birds and can be named the face of Guyana, ’cause we are able to see this bright bird from almost all covers of so many tourism brochures. There is a sharp contrast between males and females, as a rule, males possess the radiant plumage and the female’s have brown colorings. So, needless to say, they are not very attractive, but they are perfect at creating nests.

Cock-of-the-Rocks can grow to approximately 8 inches in height and get very rounded, bodies. There is nice half-moon crest on their head, and wings are black and white as well as tail feathers. These birds are very vocal while flying, because they make a noticeable hissing sound. I think they look unbelievably nice, just imagine, red and orange birds among green tropics.

Habitat

Guianan Cock-of-the-Rocks are native to northern South America, so you can enjoy them in Guyana, French Guiana, Suriname, Columbia, Amazonian Brazil and Venezuela. All birds in Guyana are nice, healthy and will be glad to meet you, but, as for me, the best place to view is at Kaieteur Falls, Iwokrama International Centre for Rainforest Conservation and Development. While there, it is possible to enjoy these birds nesting in caves, making mating dance and even bathing.

PersonalityGuianan

Cock-of-the-Rocks are (sad to say it!) polygamous, but, my dears, because of this we can enjoy one of the most unusual and spectacular courtship performance. A few males gather at a lek, and try to draw the attention of females. They perform their mating dances, trying to show bright colors of feathers. While dancing birds spread their wings, strut, ruffle their tail feathers, and make special calls. The competition is very tough, and only the best of the best will be awarded with mating.

FoodThe birds eat fruits and afterwards seeds go undamaged through their digestive system and a lot of new trees can grow allowing species of trees to grow far from parent trees.

Siskins prefer eating seeds, they are regular guests in various gardens, especially when there is a food shortage near their own place of living. Most nests are located high in conifer trees. Nests themselves are very small, neat and tidy, made from twigs covered with linchen, hair and feathers.

Cool facts about Siskin birds:

• can stay near the reliable source of food for a long time;
• once they have left a place, they will never return there;
• prefer to live together, they are gregarious birds, sometimes, “men” even can visit another’s nests;
• “men” feed their mates when they sit on the nest.