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Photo: © Stephen Gast eBird S38337090 Macaulay Library ML 93087421
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White-eared Jacamar

Galbalcyrhynchus leucotis
Jacamar Orejiblanco
map-colombia-white-eared-jacamar
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Song

White-eared Jacamar

Appearance: The White-eared Jacamar has a white ear patch that contrasts with its glossy black head and upperparts. It has a bright rufous throat and breast, and its underparts are mainly white. This species also features a long, straight bill that it uses to catch small insects and other prey.
Habitat: White-eared Jacamars are found in lowland tropical forests and forest edges. They prefer habitats with tall trees, especially near rivers and streams, where they find suitable perches for hunting insects.
Behavior: These birds are often observed perched quietly as they scan the surroundings for flying insects. Once they spot prey, they will sally out to catch it in mid-air with a quick, darting flight. White-eared Jacamars are usually solitary or found in pairs.
Breeding: Breeding habits of this species  involve excavating burrows in earthen banks or termite nests. The female lays 2-4 eggs, and both parents take turns incubating the eggs and feeding the chicks.
Conservation Status: The White-eared Jacamar is considered a species of least concern according to the IUCN Red List

Distribution

Amazon Region: This species is also present in the Amazon region which encompasses the southeastern part of the country. The Amazon rainforest provides an ideal environment for White-eared Jacamars with its abundant insect prey and suitable nesting sites. 
Orinoquía Region: The White-eared Jacamar can be found in parts of the Orinoquía region in eastern Colombia. This region consists of vast grasslands, savannas, and patches of gallery forests where these birds can be spotted.

Taxonomy

The White-eared Jacamar(Galbalcyrhynchus leucotis)
  • Kingdom: Animalia
  • Phylum: Chordata
  • Class: Aves (Birds)
  • Order: Galbuliformes
  • Family: Galbulidae
  • Genus: Galbalcyrhynchus 
  • Species: Galbalcyrhynchus leucotis

Vocalization

Call: The call of the White-eared Jacamar is a high-pitched, shrill "sreee" or "srii" sound that can often be heard in the forest canopy. This call is often used for communication between mates, signaling alarm, or territory defense.
Song: The song of the White-eared Jacamar is a series of melodious and repetitive notes that are often described as a soft, trilling "chirrr-chirrr-chirrr." Male jacamars may sing to attract mates or establish territories during the breeding season.
Chatter: Apart from distinct calls and songs, White-eared Jacamars may also engage in rapid chattering sounds during interactions with other birds or in response to disturbances in their surroundings.
Territorial Behavior: Both male and female White-eared Jacamars may vocalize to defend their territory against intruders or to communicate with neighboring pairs. Their vocalizations often play a crucial role in maintaining boundaries and avoiding conflicts.