Species profile
About this species
The Golden-headed Manakin is a small, stocky bird found in tropical forests of South America & Trinidad. The male is striking with a jet-black body contrasted by a vivid golden-yellow head, white & red thighs, & a pale bill. Females are olive-green & far less conspicuous than their flamboyant male counterparts.
Tropical & subtropical lowland rainforest understorey, forest edges, & secondary growth across northern South America & Trinidad
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Golden-headed Manakin with us in Trinidad & Tobago.
These departures are part of our South America programme.
In the field, David Miles helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
Early morning hours shortly after dawn during the dry season, when males are most actively displaying at lek sites
Position yourself near known lek sites where males gather to perform their rapid, acrobatic courtship displays, as these locations offer repeated photographic opportunities. Use a fast shutter speed of at least 1/1000s to freeze the swift wing movements & jumps during display behaviour. A long lens of 400mm or more is advisable to maintain a respectful distance without disturbing the birds at their display perches.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Golden-headed Manakin
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.