An uncommon and splendid bird of mid & lower temperate forests between 1100-3000m. Present in all three Cordilleras of Colombia and the Andes of northwestern Venezuela south into Bolivia.

Usually seen in pairs feeding on fruits of large trees at canopy and mid-levels. They sally and pluck the fruits on air while hovering. More often heard than seen, it has a loud voice that can be transmitted for a fairly long distance.