Galbula – Typical jacamars
These clever birds aren’t fooled by mimicry attempted by harmless prey
It is the largest genus within the Galbulidae family, representing the most iridescent jacamars. Their distribution is limited to northern South America, with many found in areas of Amazonia.
The males and females usually look similar. However, in many species, the males can be distinguished by their brighter, glossier plumage and white throat. Their songs are a series of accelerating high-pitched notes that end on a trill.
They are strictly insectivorous and feed on butterflies, moths, beetles, flies, wasps, and dragonflies. They often use light gaps and dart from their perch to catch aerial prey.
The monogamous pairs exclusively nest in burrows dug in the sand, mud, or termitariums.
Species in this genus
Paradise jacamar
These agile hunters can catch butterflies and dragonflies mid-flight