Pteroglossus castanotis
The Chestnut-eared Aracari (Pteroglossus castanotis) is a striking, medium-sized toucanet celebrated for its vibrant plumage and distinct facial markings. Measuring approximately 43-48 cm (17-19 inches) in length, including its prominent bill, and weighing between 220-310 grams, it is easily identified by its glossy black head adorned with chestnut-brown ear-coverts, which give the species its common name. Its breast and belly are bright yellow, transversed by a broad, reddish-orange band, an...
This aracari primarily inhabits humid tropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, and secondary growth, often near water sources, ranging from lowlands up to elevations of about 1,700 meters.
Primarily frugivorous, their diet consists mainly of a wide variety of tropical fruits, supplemented opportunistically with large insects, eggs, and nestlings of other bird species.
Chestnut-eared Aracaris are highly social and diurnal, typically observed in small flocks of 3-12 individuals, often foraging and roosting together in tree cavities or dense foliage. Their foraging strategy involves actively gleaning fruits and insects from tree branches, often performing acrobat...
The Chestnut-eared Aracari boasts a broad distribution across South America, primarily within the Amazon Basin and adjacent regions. Its breeding range extends from southern Colombia, eastern Ecuador, and eastern Peru, eastward across northern Bolivia and throughout much of western and central Br...
Least Concern
- The Chestnut-eared Aracari is one of the most widespread aracari species across South America. - Like all toucans, their large, seemingly cumbersome bill is surprisingly lightweight due to its spongy, honeycombed bone structure. - They often use their serrated bill edges to 'saw' off pieces of ...