toucans

Toucans are a group of New World birds in the family Ramphastidae, found from southern Mexico to northern Argentina. They inhabit tropical and subtropical forests and forest edges. They are best known for their large, brightly colored bills, which can be as long as half their body length in some species. The bill is light and hollow, with air-filled bones, and functions in feeding and thermoregulation rather than as a heavy tool.

Toucans have compact bodies, short wings, and zygodactyl feet (two toes forward, two backward) suited for perching. Plumage varies by species but is often black with white patches and vivid bill colors. Males and females look similar in most species.

Their diet is primarily fruit, especially figs and other soft fruits, but they also eat insects, small vertebrates, and eggs when available. They swallow fruit whole and rely on seed dispersal. They typically feed in trees and sometimes forage in small groups.

Nesting occurs in tree cavities, frequently those abandoned by other birds. The female lays 2-4 white eggs, and both parents incubate for roughly 16-20 days. Chicks are cared for by both parents and fledge after several weeks.

Toucans are non-migratory but may move locally in response to food availability. They depend on intact forests, and habitat loss threatens some species. Overall, many toucan species are assessed as least concern, though several have restricted ranges and declining populations.

Ecologically, by dispersing seeds they help maintain tropical forest dynamics. Notable species include the keel-billed toucan (Ramphastos sulfuratus) and the toco toucan (Ramphastos toco), as well as many toucanets and aracaris.