Image © Jim Gain
Nomenclature
Scientific Name: Ramphastos sulfuratus
Name in Spanish (Mexico): Tucán Pico Canoa
Name in Mayan (if known):
ABA 4-Letter Bird Code: KBTO
Family: Ramphastidae
Order: Piciformes
About this Species
The Keel-billed Toucan (Ramphastos sulfuratus) is a colorful bird species found in Belize and other parts of Central and South America. They are known for their large, curved beaks that are brightly colored in green, blue, orange, and red. In Belize, the Keel-billed Toucan is a common sight in the forests and jungles, especially in the Maya Mountains and other areas with dense vegetation.
Keel-billed Toucans are omnivorous and eat a variety of fruits, insects, and small animals. They are also known to use their beaks to reach into tree cavities to extract eggs and nestlings of other bird species. In Belize, they play an important ecological role as seed dispersers for many tree species, helping to maintain the forest ecosystem.
The breeding season for Keel-billed Toucans in Belize typically runs from February to May. They lay their eggs in tree cavities, which they excavate themselves or take over from other birds. The females lay 2-4 eggs, which both parents incubate for around 16-18 days. The chicks are born naked and blind, and rely on their parents for food and protection until they fledge at around 7-8 weeks of age. Overall, the Keel-billed Toucan is a fascinating and important species in the natural history of Belize, and its conservation is crucial for maintaining the health of the country's forests and ecosystems.
*Occurrence and Distribution in the Yucatan Peninsula
RESIDENCY STATUS: Yearround Resident
FREQUENCY STATUS: Fairly Common in the...
DISTRIBUTION TRENDS: Highest populations are in the ...
*This information was gathered from eBird (www.ebird.org)