Tody

Tody refers to a family of birds, Todidae, that are found in the Caribbean. There are four extant species, all belonging to the genus Todus. These birds are small, with large heads and short tails. Their plumage is typically brightly colored, often featuring green backs and wings, with contrasting colors on their undersides and throats.

The different todies are geographically restricted. The Cuban Tody is found in Cuba, the Jamaican Tody on Jamaica, the Puerto Rican Tody on Puerto Rico, and the Hispaniolan Tody on Hispaniola. They inhabit forests and woodlands, preferring humid environments. Their diet consists mainly of insects, which they catch in mid-air or glean from foliage.

Todies are known for their distinctive calls, which can vary between species. They are generally solitary birds, although they may be seen in pairs during the breeding season. Nests are typically excavated in earthy banks or tree cavities. The family is considered monotypic, meaning it contains only one genus. Conservation status varies among the species, with some being common and others facing threats due to habitat loss.