A striking and colorful bird that belongs to the toucan family. It is found in the tropical forests of South America, particularly in the Amazon Basin, which includes parts of Brazil, Bolivia, and Peru. This bird is known for its vibrant plumage and unique appearance, making it one of the most eye-catching species in the rainforest.

One of the most distinctive features of the curl-crested aracari is its bright, multicolored feathers. The bird’s body is primarily black, but its chest is adorned with bold yellow and red bands. Its head is where it gets its name—the feathers on top of its head form curly, dark-colored crests that look almost like small curls or ringlets. These curly feathers are unlike anything seen in other toucan species, making the curl-crested aracari truly unique. The bird also has a large, colorful beak, which is typical of toucans. The beak is usually yellow with a red or orange tip, adding to its striking appearance.

Despite their large beaks, these birds are surprisingly lightweight and agile, which helps them move easily through the dense forest canopy. They have strong, zygodactyl feet, meaning two toes face forward and two face backward, which allows them to grip branches securely as they hop from tree to tree.

These birds are most active during the day, spending their time foraging for food in the treetops. Curl-crested aracaris primarily eat fruit, which they pluck with their long beaks. Their diet also includes insects, small lizards, and eggs from other birds’ nests. They play an important role in their ecosystem by helping to disperse seeds from the fruits they eat, which helps maintain the health of the rainforest.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Bolivia

2016

Brazil

2016

Peru

2016