A vibrant and charismatic bird native to the Andean cloud forests of South America, especially in Colombia, Ecuador, and northern Peru. This bird stands out not only for its brilliant green feathers and colorful face but also for the splash of deep red (crimson) on its rump and tail coverts, which gives it its name. It’s a bird of the treetops — energetic, social, and always a delight to spot in its misty mountain habitat.

Its overall body is bright emerald green, with a slightly paler chest and underparts. Its bill is large and colorful, mostly black, with a yellowish or ivory-colored ridge along the top and fine red or chestnut markings. The eyes are surrounded by a ring of dark blue or blackish feathers, giving it a striking facial expression. But its most distinct feature — and what sets it apart from other green toucanets — is that deep red rump, especially noticeable in flight.

Crimson-rumped toucanets are omnivores, feeding mostly on fruits, but also eating insects, small lizards, bird eggs, and occasionally nestlings. Their large, curved bill helps them reach into fruit clusters or probe among leaves and bark. They are important seed dispersers, playing a key role in maintaining the diversity and health of the forests they live in. These toucanets are often seen foraging in pairs or small family groups, moving through the canopy with quiet agility. While generally silent compared to other toucans, they do make low croaking or grunting calls, especially during breeding season.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Colombia

2016

Passage

Ecuador

2016

Venezuela

2016