Horned sungem: Difference between revisions

==Description==

[[File:Heliactin bilophus 348331475.jpg|thumb|left|Male near [[Serra do Cipó National Park]]|alt=Male perching on a twig in front-side view]]

 

The species shows pronounced [[sexual dimorphism|differences between male and female]]. The male is recognized as particularly beautiful and spectacular, with [[Iridescence|iridescent]] feather tufts ("horns") above the eyes.<ref name=HOSU-BOW/> Each of these tufts consists of a row of six feathers that are inclined backwards and are fiery red at their base, golden in the middle, and golden-green at their tips. The other feathers of the upper surface of the head are shiny dark blue to blue green and form a low crest at the back. The throat and side of the head up to the ear region are covered with non-iridescent black feathers; those of the middle of the throat are very long, forming a pointed "beard" that extends above the white feathers of the breast.<ref name="wiedneuwied"/><ref name=HOSU-BOW/><ref name="Restall2006"/> The female is plainer, without the "horns", the black feathers, and the iridescent head feathers.<ref name=HOSU-BOW/> Its chin and throat are brown or yellow-buff, with darker tones on the sides of the head. Its tail is shorter than that of the male.<ref name="robber"/><ref name="Restall2006"/> Juveniles resemble females.<ref name=HOSU-BOW/>