Bucco

Bucco is a genus of birds in the family Bucconidae, commonly known as puffbirds. The genus is distributed across tropical regions of the Americas, with species found from Mexico and Central America through much of South America, including the Amazon Basin and the Andean foothills, as well as on several Caribbean islands. Bucco is the type genus of the family Bucconidae, which groups together several closely related puffbird genera.

Members of Bucco are medium-sized birds with stout bills, short tails, and cryptically colored plumage in browns, grays, and white. They typically perch upright on exposed branches, watching for movement; when prey is located they fly out to seize it and return to the perch. Their diet is mainly insects and other small arthropods, supplemented by small vertebrates on occasion.

Reproduction involves nesting in cavities. They may excavate or reuse natural holes in trees, and some species nest in arboreal termitaria. Both parents participate in incubation and feeding of the young. Vocalizations are typically simple, with calls used to maintain contact between mates and during territorial displays.

Habitat preferences include tropical forests and woodland edges, riparian zones, and areas of secondary growth. While several Bucco species are relatively common in suitable habitat, local populations can be affected by deforestation and habitat fragmentation. Conservational status varies by species and region, reflecting environmental changes across the Americas.