A video of an unusual bird dance is going viral. A red-capped manakin was seen moonwalking in Costa Rica. The bird’s moves are so smooth they amaze viewers. The footage was shared by YouTuber Petr Bambousek. It shows the manikin performing an unexpected moonwalk.
Why Does the Red-Capped Manakin Dance?
The red-capped manakin dances to attract a mate. Males gather in a lek and show off. They moonwalk, flick wings, and strike poses. The display is like a makeshift stage performance. The males even add sound effects for flair. Female manakins watch and decide which male impresses. “The courtship ritual matches extreme sexual selective pressure,” explained John Rowden of the National Audubon Society. Males adjust their dances based on female reactions.
The red-capped manakin stands out for its red head. Its sleek black feathers and yellow legs are striking. The video shows the bird moving backward along a branch. Tail feathers flick up and down in rhythm. The bird later flips to face the camera. Viewers joked that it looked like Michael Jackson. “That’s a smooth criminal,” one comment said.
Where Are Red-Capped Manakins Found?
These birds live in Central and South America. Countries include Belize, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, and Panama. There are about 60 manakin species in total. Many species sing or dance during courtship. The club-winged manakin creates violin-like sounds with feathers. Blue-footed boobies, birds of paradise, flamingos, and cranes also perform dances.
If a female is impressed, mating follows. She lays up to two dark grey eggs. The nest hangs from a tree branch. Males often mate with several females. Each bird species has its unique performance.
This video proves nature holds many surprises. The red-capped manakin’s moonwalk leaves viewers in awe.
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