crimson-rumped toucanet, ecuador

While delicately plucking fruit from hanging branches is certainly on the agenda, most people may be surprised that the rosy view they have about toucans isn't necessarily accurate. Omnivorous and opportunistic, these clever birds often steal eggs and nestlings from inside the nest cavities of other birds. I've even seen them snatch hummingbirds out of the air on multiple occasions! It's truly survival of the fittest in the rainforest, and toucans pull no punches.

Return To Neotropical Birds Gallery