Baryphthengus ruficapillus
The Rufous-capped Motmot (*Baryphthengus ruficapillus*) is a striking member of the Momotidae family, known for its vibrant plumage and distinctive appearance. Averaging 38-43 cm (15-17 inches) in length and weighing between 120-170 grams, this medium-sized bird sports a brilliant green body, a rich rufous (reddish-brown) crown and nape, and a prominent black facial mask extending behind the eye. Its long tail is typically blue-green, sometimes showing the characteristic "racquet" tips common...
Primarily found in the humid, evergreen Atlantic Forest, inhabiting both primary and mature secondary forests, as well as forest edges and ravines. It typically occurs at elevations ranging from 100 to 1,800 meters (330-5,900 feet).
Feeds mainly on large insects (e.g., cicadas, beetles, katydids), spiders, and other invertebrates, supplementing its diet with small vertebrates such as lizards, frogs, and occasionally fruits. Forages by sallying from a perch to catch prey.
The Rufous-capped Motmot is a diurnal, solitary, or pair-dwelling bird that spends long periods perched quietly in the shady understory, often flicking its tail with a pendulum-like motion when disturbed. It employs a "sit-and-wait" foraging strategy, sallying from its perch to snatch insects or ...
The Rufous-capped Motmot is endemic to the humid Atlantic Forest of southeastern South America, primarily inhabiting southeastern Brazil, eastern Paraguay, and northeastern Argentina. In Brazil, its range extends from southern Bahia south through Espírito Santo, Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Paraná,...
Least Concern
- The Rufous-capped Motmot, like other motmots, is known for its distinctive tail, which often features "racquet" tips where the barbs at the end of the two central tail feathers are missing, though this species' racquets are less pronounced and sometimes appear worn off naturally rather than act...