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cypherdecypher:

Animal of the Day!

Long-Wattled Umbrellabird (Cephalopterus penduliger)

Photo by Jesse Huth)

Conservation Status- Vulnerable

Habitat- Central America; South America

Size (Weight/Length)- 40 cm

Diet- Insects; Fruit; Reptiles

Cool Facts- The long-wattled umbrellabird takes the process of courtship to another level. While both sexes have a crest on their head, males sport a massive throat wattle covered in feathers. The length of this wattle can be controlled and retracted while flying or outside the mating season to allow for easier flight. Large groups of males will gather together and are visited by females. The female will choose a single male to mate with and lay one egg per mating season. These umbrellabirds are popular in the illegal pet trade due to their plumage and relatively calm nature. 

Rating- 11/10 (How to impress your date 101.)

@todaysbird