Galbulidae

Galbulidae is a small family of birds commonly known as jacamars, placed in the order Piciformes. They are distributed across the tropical Americas, from southern North America through Central America and into much of South America, inhabiting forests, woodland edges, and savannas, often near water. Jacamars are adept aerial insectivores and are typically observed perched conspicuously while watching for prey, then plunging to catch insects in flight.

Physical characteristics of galbulids include slender bodies, long down-curved bills, and often iridescent plumage in greens, bronzes, and other metallic tones. Most species are small to medium in size, generally around 10 to 25 centimeters in length, with some larger forms. Plumage patterns are variable, and in many species the sexes appear similar, though some show subtle differences.

Behavior and ecology: Jacamars are principally insectivorous, feeding on flying insects and other small prey. They commonly hunt from exposed perches, sallying into the air to seize prey, and may occasionally glean insects from foliage. They roost in trees and are generally quiet outside the breeding season, with vocalizations that include high-pitched calls and whistles.

Reproduction: Nests are typically cavities in trees, abandoned termitaria, or other woody cavities. Both parents participate in incubation and feeding of the young. Clutch size is usually small, and eggs are often white.

Systematics and status: The family Galbulidae comprises two extant genera, Galbula and Jacamerops, encompassing roughly 18 species. Most jacamars are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, though habitat loss and fragmentation threaten some localized populations.