KeelBilled Toucans
Keel-billed Toucans are striking birds known for their large, colorful bills which are primarily black with a red tip and yellow sides. The upper mandible has a distinctive white stripe along its length. These birds have predominantly black feathers on their body with a white patch on the rump and blue skin around their eyes. They measure between 17-22 inches in length, including their long tail. Keel-billed Toucans are native to the rainforests of Central and South America, specifically within the canopy layer where they reside in small family groups. They feed mainly on fruits but also consume insects, lizards, and bird eggs when available. These birds are arboreal, rarely descending from the trees, and utilize their large bills to reach fruit that would otherwise be out of reach. These birds have a unique way of consuming food called "gular pumping" where they use muscular contractions to move food towards the back of their throat before swallowing. Keel-billed Toucans are known for their distinctive calls, consisting of a series of nasal croaks and grunts which can be heard echoing through the rainforest canopy. In summary, Keel-billed Toucans are vibrant and unique birds that inhabit the canopies of rainforests in Central and South America. With their large, colorful bills and distinct calls, they play an essential role in maintaining the health of the ecosystem while adding a touch of beauty to the lush green treetops.