Aulacorhynchus prasinus
The Northern Emerald Toucanet, *Aulacorhynchus prasinus*, is a vibrant, medium-sized toucanet known for its striking emerald green plumage. Measuring approximately 30-35 cm (12-14 inches) in length and weighing between 150-200 grams, it is among the smallest members of the toucan family (Ramphastidae). Its most distinctive field marks include a stout, black bill adorned with a bright yellow or white line along the culmen and a varying blackish patch at the base of the lower mandible, framed b...
This toucanet primarily inhabits humid evergreen and cloud forests, ranging from montane to subtropical zones. It is typically found at elevations between 900 and 3000 meters.
Primarily frugivorous, consuming a wide variety of berries and figs, supplemented with insects (beetles, caterpillars), small lizards, bird eggs, and nestlings. They forage arboreally, plucking items with their long bills or making short sallies for flying insects.
Northern Emerald Toucanets are diurnal birds, active from dawn to dusk, often roosting communally in tree cavities or dense foliage. Their foraging strategy is largely arboreal; they hop nimbly through the canopy, gleaning fruits, insects, and occasionally small vertebrates with their specialized...
The Northern Emerald Toucanet is a resident species distributed across a wide geographic area in Mesoamerica and northern South America. Its range extends from southern Mexico (Oaxaca and Chiapas), through the highlands of Central America including Guatemala, Belize, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicara...
Least Concern
- Despite its large appearance, the Northern Emerald Toucanet's bill is remarkably lightweight due to its honeycomb internal structure. - It is the smallest true toucan species, making it a 'miniature jewel' of the Neotropics. - Its striking green plumage provides excellent camouflage amidst the ...