Momotus aequatorialis
The Andean Motmot (Momotus aequatorialis) is a striking neotropical bird, easily recognized by its vibrant green plumage, rich rufous underparts, and the distinctive black mask across its eyes. Measuring an impressive 46-51 cm in length, with a significant portion attributed to its elongated tail, and weighing between 110-150 grams, it is among the larger motmot species. A sapphire-blue crown and a black stripe extending from the eye add to its regal appearance. Its most iconic feature, howev...
Primarily inhabiting humid montane forests, cloud forests, and forest edges, this species thrives at elevations typically ranging from 1,400 to 2,400 meters, though it can be found from 500 to 2,800 meters.
Their diet is omnivorous, consisting mainly of large insects such as beetles, grasshoppers, and cicadas, as well as spiders, small lizards, frogs, and a variety of forest fruits.
Andean Motmots are diurnal, often observed perching motionless for extended periods, carefully scanning for prey from a concealed branch. Their foraging strategy is a classic 'perch-and-wait,' where they rapidly dart out to snatch insects or pluck fruits before returning to their perch. They are ...
The Andean Motmot is a resident species, primarily distributed along the Andean cordilleras of South America. Its breeding and year-round range extends from the western and central Andes of southern Colombia, southward through the highlands of Ecuador, and into the extreme northern regions of Per...
Least Concern
- The Andean Motmot is one of the larger motmot species, measuring up to 51 cm long, with its distinctive tail contributing significantly to its length. - Its most famous feature is the "racket" shaped tips at the end of its two central tail feathers, formed by the bird self-pruning the barbs off...