Rebecca Manzi The courtship ritual of the Woodchat Manakin is often compared to Michael Jackson's "moonwalk" as it moves rapidly backwards on a branch.
@clacyr/YouTube
The red-capped manakin (Ceratopipra mentalis) is a small tropical bird that has captured worldwide attention thanks to its spectacular courtship ritual, often compared to Michael Jackson’s famous “moonwalk.” During mating season, the male performs a stunning dance: he moves rapidly backward along a branch, creating the illusion of effortlessly gliding—just like the iconic move popularized by the King of Pop.
This unique behavior has earned the red-capped manakin the nickname “michael jackson bird.” The male’s courtship display is part of a system where multiple males perform elaborate dances to attract females.
Besides the moonwalk-like movement, the male also produces distinctive sounds such as clicks and buzzes, created by rapid wing beats, adding a sonic layer to his visual performance. The extraordinary shows of the red-capped manakin have gone viral on social media, with numerous videos showcasing this bird’s dance spreading across the internet.
Distinctive features and habitat
The adult male sports a velvety black plumage with a bright red head and nape, vivid yellow thighs, and a pale yellow chin. In contrast, the female has a more subdued olive-green coloration. Both sexes have brown eyes, but the adult male’s iris is white, giving it an even more striking look.
The red-capped manakin is native to the humid tropical forests of Central and South America, with a significant presence in countries like Mexico, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, and Ecuador. It favors rainforests and secondary growth areas, usually found below 3,000 feet in elevation.
