Psilopogon rubricapillus
The Crimson-fronted Barbet, *Psilopogon rubricapillus*, is a vibrant jewel of the Sri Lankan avifauna, instantly recognizable by its dazzling emerald plumage accented with a distinctive crimson forehead, cerulean crown, and lemon-yellow throat and cheeks. Averaging 15-17 cm in length and weighing around 30-40 grams, this stocky arboreal bird boasts a thick, pale bill perfectly suited for its frugivorous diet. Its most striking field marks are the contrasting red, blue, and yellow on its face ...
Resident in wet evergreen forests, well-wooded gardens, and plantations, typically found from sea level up to elevations of 1300 meters, occasionally higher.
Primarily frugivorous, consuming a wide variety of figs, berries, and other small fruits; insects, such as termites and beetles, form a smaller but significant part of their diet.
This diurnal species is generally solitary or found in pairs, moving deliberately through the mid-canopy and sub-canopy layers of the forest. Foraging involves gleaning fruits and berries from branches, often hanging upside down to reach ripe morsels, supplemented by occasional insect captures. T...
The Crimson-fronted Barbet is entirely endemic to the island nation of Sri Lanka, making its entire global distribution confined to this biodiverse hotspot. It is widespread throughout the island's low country and hills, generally ranging from sea level up to elevations of approximately 1300 mete...
Least Concern
- The Crimson-fronted Barbet is one of only two barbet species endemic to Sri Lanka. - Despite its vibrant coloration, its predominantly green plumage makes it incredibly well-camouflaged within the forest canopy, often being heard long before it is seen. - Its scientific genus name, *Psilopogon*...