Capito niger
The Black-spotted Barbet, *Capito niger*, is a vividly colored and robust member of the New World barbet family, Capitonidae, endemic to the northern Amazonian lowlands. Measuring approximately 18-20 cm (7-8 inches) in length and weighing 60-70 grams, this stocky bird is instantly recognizable by its striking plumage. Males feature a glossy black head and upperparts, a brilliant scarlet crown, and a prominent white or yellow supraloral stripe extending to the ear-coverts. Their underparts are...
Resides predominantly in the humid canopy and sub-canopy of lowland tropical rainforests, favoring areas near rivers, forest edges, and clearings. It is typically found at elevations from sea level up to 500 meters, occasionally venturing into low montane zones.
Primarily frugivorous, its diet largely comprises a wide array of ripe fruits, especially figs and berries, supplemented by a significant intake of insects, spiders, and other invertebrates. Food is acquired by gleaning from vegetation and occasional short sallying flights.
The Black-spotted Barbet is a diurnal and predominantly arboreal species, usually observed singly or in pairs high within the forest canopy. It forages actively, gleaning fruits and insects from foliage and branches, often making short sallying flights to snatch flying insects or pluck distant be...
The Black-spotted Barbet is a resident species distributed across the northern Amazon Basin in South America. Its extensive breeding range spans eastern Colombia, southern and eastern Venezuela, and extends eastward through Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana, before reaching northern Brazil. In ...
Least Concern
- The Black-spotted Barbet belongs to the New World barbets (Capitonidae), a family distinct from their Old World counterparts, showcasing a fascinating example of convergent evolution. - Unlike many other cavity nesters that reuse existing holes, these barbets are master excavators, carving thei...