Ramphastos

Ramphastos is a genus of toucans in the family Ramphastidae, native to the tropical and subtropical forests of Central and South America. The group includes several species, the best known being the toco toucan (Ramphastos toco) and the keel-billed toucan (Ramphastos sulfuratus). They inhabit a range of forested environments, from dense rainforest canopies to forest edges and savanna patches, often near water.

These birds are large, with distinctive long bills that are brightly colored and relatively lightweight. The bill is a keratin-covered structure with a hollow core, enabling impressive length without excessive weight. They have black plumage with contrasting throat or facial markings, and they possess zygodactyl feet (two toes forward and two backward) suited to perching and climbing.

Ramphastos species are primarily frugivorous, feeding on fruit, but they take insects, eggs, and small vertebrates opportunistically. They play a role in seed dispersal and forest dynamics. They forage in trees and on fruiting branches, often in small groups or family units and sometimes joining mixed-species foraging flocks. Vocalizations include croaks and calls that convey location and size.

Breeding involves cavity nesting in tree hollows. The female lays white eggs, and both parents participate in incubation and care. Threats include habitat loss and fragmentation in parts of their range, though several species are currently listed as of least concern by conservation organizations.