toucan-barbet-1600-MAT_5979
Photo: © Luis A. Materon
toucan-barbet-head

Toucan Barbet

Semnornis ramphastinus
Compás
map-colombia-toucan-barbet
bird-song-square

Song

Toucan Barbet

Appearance: The Toucan Barbet is characterized by its vibrant plumage, which includes: A green body contrasted with a bright yellow underside. A prominent black crown and face.  A striking red patch on the throat, along with additional accents of white. It has a large, robust bill, reminiscent of that of a toucan, which is used for feeding on fruits and insects. 
Habitat: The Toucan Barbet is predominantly found in the Andean regions of Colombia and Ecuador. It primarily inhabits: Humid montane forests, primary and secondary forests, forest edges and clearings 
Behavior: The Toucan Barbet is primarily frugivorous, feeding on a variety of fruits, berries, and insects. Its bill enables it to reach and extract food from hard-to-access areas. Generally seen in pairs or small family groups, these birds can also be observed in mixed-species flocks during foraging. They are known for their loud calls and distinctive vocalizations, which serve both to communicate with mates and to establish territory. 
Breeding: Toucan Barbets typically nest in tree cavities, often using old woodpecker holes or creating their own in soft tree trunks.They exhibit monogamous pairing, with both male and female taking part in the incubation and rearing of the young. The female usually lays a small clutch of eggs (typically 2–4), and they are incubated for about 14-16 days. 
Conservation Status: The conservation status of the Toucan Barbet is classified as Near Threatened by the IUCN.
MALE
toucan-barbet-800-MAT_5979
Photo: © Luis A. Materon
FEMALE
34700a9613c4950a49751e5a95c8edd5_compasMAT_0364800
Photo: © Luis A. Materon

Distribution

Central and Northern Andes: This region is a stronghold for the Toucan Barbet, particularly in areas like the foothills and surrounding montane forests. 

Taxonomy

The Toucan Barbet (Semnornis ramphastinus)
  • Kingdom: Animalia
  • Phylum: Chordata
  • Class: Aves (Birds)
  • Order: Piciformes
  • Family: Ramphastidae
  • Genus: Semnornis
  • Species: Semnornis ramphastinus

Vocalization

Contact Calls: Soft calls used for communication between mates or family members, often heard while foraging. 


Territorial Calls: 
Loud calls used to establish territory and deter intruders, especially during breeding season. 

Alarm Calls: Sharp calls emitted when threatened, warning others of danger. 

Mating Calls: Specific calls produced by males during courtship to attract females.