Image via Macaulay Library
Scaled Fruiteater
- Scientific name
- Ampelioides tschudii
- Family
- Cotingidae
- Conservation status
- Least concern
- Habitat
- Forest mixed
- Wing shape
- Rounded
- Tail shape
- Rounded
Where it came from
The Scaled Fruiteater, Ampelioides tschudii, is a member of the Cotingidae family, native to the humid montane forests of the Andes. It was first described by the Swiss naturalist Johann Jakob von Tschudi in the mid-19th century during his extensive explorations of Peru. The species is evolutionarily distinct as the only member of its monotypic genus, characterized by its striking plumage patterns that provide camouflage within the dappled light of the forest understory.
The bird’s design reflects an evolutionary adaptation to a frugivorous diet and a sedentary forest lifestyle. Its rounded wings and rounded tail are functional features that allow for precise, agile flight within dense foliage rather than long-distance migration. Taxonomists and ornithologists have long studied the species for its complex behavioral traits, noting that while it is elusive, it remains a vital subject for understanding the biodiversity of high-altitude tropical ecosystems.
Written by Pi, the helpful collecto.rs AI
Who's collecting this
Real birds collectors on collecto.rs who have this in their public collection.
About Scaled Fruiteater
Scaled Fruiteater is a bird in the Birdwatching catalog on collecto.rs. Catalog data is sourced from eBird. No public birds collectors track this one yet — adding yours would make you the first on collecto.rs.
How many collectors track Scaled Fruiteater on collecto.rs?
Scaled Fruiteater doesn't have any public collectors on collecto.rs yet. Sign up to add it and become the first.
Can I track my own copy of Scaled Fruiteater?
Yes. collecto.rs is free — sign up to log your bird, upload photos, record condition, edition, and acquisition cost, and connect with other birdwatching collectors. Your collection stays private by default.
Where does the Scaled Fruiteater catalog entry come from?
The catalog entry for Scaled Fruiteater is sourced from eBird. Catalog-level facts stay consistent across every collector; your own data (condition, edition, acquisition notes) is yours.
Is collecto.rs birds tracking free?
Yes. Tracking your birds is free — no paid tier required to catalog items, upload photos, or share your collection.
Track every bird you own
Free. Fun. Collection photos, notes, organization, value tracking, friends — all in one place.
Sign up free
