Aulacorhynchus sulcatus
The Groove-billed Toucanet (Aulacorhynchus sulcatus) is an exceptionally vibrant and relatively small member of the toucan family (Ramphastidae), typically measuring 34-38 cm (13-15 inches) in length and weighing between 150-250 grams (5.3-8.8 ounces). Its plumage is predominantly a rich emerald green, beautifully contrasted by a prominent blue orbital skin around its dark eyes and a throat patch that can vary from yellow to blue-green depending on the subspecies. The species' defining charac...
This species primarily inhabits humid montane and cloud forests, as well as adjacent secondary growth, coffee plantations, and forest edges. It is typically found at elevations ranging from 800 to 2500 meters (2,600 to 8,200 feet).
Their diet is primarily frugivorous, consisting of a wide variety of tropical fruits, supplemented significantly by insects, spiders, and occasionally small vertebrates, bird eggs, or nestlings. They forage arboreally, plucking items from vegetation and within tree cavities.
Groove-billed Toucanets are diurnal birds, often observed singly, in pairs, or in small family groups foraging actively through the mid-to-upper canopy of their forest homes. They move with an agile, undulating flight between trees, frequently following established routes within their territory. ...
The Groove-billed Toucanet is endemic to the humid montane and cloud forests of northern South America, primarily confined to Venezuela and adjacent parts of Colombia. Its distribution is characterized by three recognized subspecies, each occupying distinct, largely allopatric ranges. The nominat...
Least Concern
- The 'grooves' on its bill, which give the bird its name, are unique to this species within its range and are more pronounced on the upper mandible. - Despite their seemingly heavy bills, toucanet bills are remarkably lightweight due to an internal structure of bone struts and air pockets, makin...