The fiery-billed aracari is a colorful bird in the toucan family, found in Costa Rica and Panama. It typically inhabits wet forests and primarily feeds on fruit, but also consumes insects and small vertebrates.
Overview
The fiery-billed aracari (Pteroglossus frantzii) is a colorful bird belonging to the toucan family, Ramphastidae. It is primarily found in the Pacific regions of Costa Rica and western Panama.
Physical Description
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Length | Approximately 43-45 cm (17-18 in) |
| Weight | 225-280 g (7.9-9.9 oz) |
| Bill | Large, with a fiery-orange upper part and black lower part; green at the base |
| Plumage | Black head, neck, and throat; yellow underparts with a red belly band; blue-green back; red rump |
Habitat and Distribution
- Range: From the Gulf of Nicoya in Costa Rica to the western Chiriquí Province in Panama.
- Elevation: Typically found at sea level up to 1,200 m (3,940 ft), occasionally up to 1,800 m (5,910 ft).
- Habitat: Prefers wet primary and secondary forests, often near edges.
Behavior and Diet
- Social Structure: Often seen in groups of six or more, sometimes roosting communally.
- Diet: Primarily frugivorous, but also consumes insects, bird eggs, and small vertebrates, especially during breeding.
- Breeding: Breeding season occurs from January to April, with a typical clutch size of two eggs.
Conservation Status
The fiery-billed aracari is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, with an estimated population of over 50,000 mature individuals. However, its population is believed to be decreasing, and it is found in at least two protected areas in Costa Rica.
