Cock of the rock bird

   Cock of the rock, either of two brightly colored birds related to the cotingas and native to tropical regions of South America. Cocks of the rock resemble parrots, but have large, permanently erect crests, which extend down from the top of their heads and completely conceal their bills. During the mating season, groups of about 20 males and females perform a courtship dance in which the males take turns hopping and showing off.
   The male golden cock of the rock (Rupicola rupicola) is a 12-inch-long, orange-gold bird with black markings on its wing and tail. The male Peruvian cock of the rock (R. peruvianus) is the same size, but is bright red and has all-black wing and tail feathers. The females of both species are dark brown. Cocks of the rock live chiefly on fruit. Their mud and stick nests are usually built near the entrances of caves beside jungle rivers and streams.
   Cocks of the rock are classified as the order Passeriformes, family Cotingidae (cotingas), genus Rupicola.