Psilopogon duvaucelii
Psilopogon duvaucelii, the Black-eared Barbet, is a small, strikingly vibrant member of the Asian barbet family (Megalaimidae) celebrated for its intricate plumage and distinctive vocalizations. Measuring approximately 16-17 cm in length and weighing between 25-30 grams, its compact body is predominantly emerald green, offering superb camouflage within its tropical habitat. Key identification features include a prominent black ear patch contrasting sharply with a bright red crown, a blue-bord...
Inhabits tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests, including primary and secondary growth, forest edges, plantations, and mature gardens, typically from lowlands up to 1,200 meters elevation.
Primarily frugivorous, consuming a wide variety of fruits, especially figs and berries, supplemented with insects such as beetles, ants, and caterpillars, which are crucial for rearing young.
Black-eared Barbets are diurnal, actively foraging and vocalizing throughout the day, and roost communally in tree cavities at night. They are primarily arboreal, navigating deliberately through the canopy and sub-canopy. Foraging involves gleaning fruits directly from branches, but they also exh...
The Black-eared Barbet is a resident species distributed across the Sundaic region of Southeast Asia. Its primary range encompasses the Malay Peninsula, Singapore, the large islands of Sumatra and Borneo, and several adjacent smaller islands including Nias, the Mentawai Islands, and Bangka. While...
Least Concern
- The Black-eared Barbet is an expert cavity excavator, using its strong bill to chisel out its own nesting holes in dead wood. - Despite its vibrant coloration, its emerald green plumage provides exceptional camouflage, making it surprisingly difficult to spot amidst dense forest foliage. - It w...