Jacamar

A jacamar is a bird belonging to the family Galbulidae, which is part of the order Piciformes. This family comprises ten species, all native to the Neotropics, ranging from southern Mexico to Argentina. Jacamars are characterized by their slender bodies, long tails, and pointed bills, which are adapted for catching insects in flight.

These birds are typically found in tropical forests, woodlands, and savannas. They are often seen perched on branches, scanning for prey. Their diet consists mainly of insects, including butterflies, moths, and beetles, which they capture with quick aerial sallies. Some species may also consume small vertebrates like lizards or frogs.

Jacamars exhibit sexual dimorphism, with males and females often differing in plumage coloration, though this varies between species. They are generally solitary or found in pairs. Their nests are typically excavated in termite mounds, ant nests, or earth banks. The clutch size is usually two to four eggs, and both parents participate in incubation and chick-rearing.

The jacamar family is divided into two subfamilies: the Galbulinae and the Bucconinae. While historically grouped together, recent studies suggest that the Bucconinae, commonly known as puffbirds, might be more distantly related to the Galbulinae jacamars. However, they are still often discussed in conjunction due to shared morphological traits and historical classification. The conservation status of jacamar species varies, with some being widespread and common, while others are considered vulnerable or endangered due to habitat loss and fragmentation.