Andigena hypoglauca
The Grey-breasted Mountain Toucan (*Andigena hypoglauca*) is a striking and medium-sized member of the toucan family (Ramphastidae), typically measuring 43-47 cm (17-18.5 in) in length and weighing 270-360 grams. Its distinctive plumage features a bold black back, wings, and tail contrasted with a prominent white rump and bright yellow undertail coverts. As its name suggests, its breast and underparts are a delicate blue-grey, extending to a black crown. Key identification marks include its u...
Found in high-altitude cloud forests and humid montane evergreen forests, typically at elevations between 2,000 to 3,000 meters.
Primarily frugivorous, consuming a wide variety of fruits, but also omnivorous, supplementing its diet with insects, small vertebrates, and eggs.
The Grey-breasted Mountain Toucan is a diurnal species, typically observed alone, in pairs, or in small, cohesive family groups of up to 6-10 individuals, silently navigating the forest canopy. They roost communally in natural tree cavities or dense foliage, often at considerable heights. Their p...
The Grey-breasted Mountain Toucan is a resident species endemic to the Andes mountains of South America, with no known migratory patterns. Its distribution spans from the Central and Eastern Andes of Colombia, through the eastern slopes of Ecuador, and south into the eastern slopes of northern to...
Near Threatened
- One of the highest-dwelling toucan species, regularly found above 3,000 meters (9,800 feet) in the Andes. - Its genus name, *Andigena*, literally translates to "Andes-born," a fitting description for this mountain specialist. - The large, colorful bill, though seemingly cumbersome, is surprisin...