Brachygalba salmoni
The Dusky-backed Jacamar (*Brachygalba salmoni*) is a distinctive member of the jacamar family (Galbulidae) within the order Piciformes, making it a distant relative of woodpeckers and toucans. This species is characterized by its relatively subdued plumage, especially when compared to its often iridescent kin. Measuring approximately 18 cm (7.1 inches) in length, it presents a mostly dark, sooty-brown to blackish-brown appearance across its head and upperparts, with a subtle reddish or rufou...
Primarily inhabiting lowland evergreen rainforests, this species is also found at forest edges and in secondary growth, frequently near rivers or clearings. It prefers tropical lowlands, typically occurring up to 700 meters in elevation, though occasionally noted higher.
This species is an obligate aerial insectivore, primarily feeding on a variety of flying insects including butterflies, moths, dragonflies, bees, wasps, and beetles, captured deftly in mid-flight.
Dusky-backed Jacamars are diurnal and often observed perching motionlessly for extended periods on exposed branches within the forest understory or at the edge, patiently scanning for prey. Their primary foraging strategy involves swift, acrobatic sallies from these perches to snatch flying insec...
The Dusky-backed Jacamar has a restricted but stable distribution across parts of Central and South America. Its range extends from eastern Panama, specifically within the Darién Province, southward through western Colombia. In Colombia, it is found primarily in the Pacific lowlands of department...
Least Concern
- Unlike many of its jacamar relatives, the Dusky-backed Jacamar is notable for its lack of iridescent plumage, sporting a more muted, dusky coloration. - It belongs to the order Piciformes, making it a distant cousin to woodpeckers, toucans, and barbets. - This jacamar is a master of flycatching...