Red-crested Cotinga - Ampelion rubrocristatus

Red-crested Cotinga *Ampelion rubrocristatus* [MLZ 6129](https://arctos.database.museum/guid/MLZ:Bird:6129) 4 October 1929 Banos de Papallacta Napo, Ecuador Collected by Teodomiro Mena Physical specimen held by the Moore Laboratory of Zoology, Occidental College, Los Angeles, CA The family Cotingidae is comprised of 65 species, ranging across 24 genera. Cotingidae is often regarded as one of the most diverse families, given the incredible variety in not only plumage, but also in behavior, size, and song. The Red-crested Cotinga is not an exception to this, exhibiting a unique red tuft of feathers on the crown and a striking tail pattern. This handsome species is only found in the cloud forests of South America, where it feeds mainly on fruits.