Manakin, << MAN uh kihn, >> is a type of small, tropical bird. There are dozens of species of manakins. They live in woodlands and forests from Mexico to Argentina. These birds are very active and show little fear of people. Most manakins measure less than 5 inches (13 centimeters) long.
Manakins have a chunky body with a short, broad bill and short wings. Most species have a short tail, but a few have longer tail feathers. The males of most species have a bold color pattern. They are partly black or olive-brown and partly brightly colored in red, yellow, or blue feathers. Females are olive-green in color.
Male manakins perform elaborate courtship rituals to attract females. They often produce unusual sounds with their wings as part of these rituals. In some species, the male does a solitary hopping or flying dance. Other species are known for displays in which many males gather on a specially selected dancing ground called a lek. There they perform courtship displays in competition with each other. The female manakin visits the lek and selects a mate as the males perform. Once mating occurs, the female builds a nest and raises the family alone, while the male continues to court other females.
Manakins feed mainly on insects and small fruit. Recent studies indicate that some manakins may live more than 20 years. Most other birds of similar size have a much shorter life span.
