The Chestnut-eared Aracari is a medium-sized toucan of the Amazon Basin of South America, especially the southern and western parts of the basin. It can be very common in its range and has the widest distribution of any of the aracaris. Chestnut-eared Aracari is primarily frugivorous but also feeds on invertebrates. It is an attractively patterned species with a large yellow and black bill, a pale eye surrounded by blue facial skin, dark upperparts, and a yellow belly divided by a red band.
Habitats & Distribution
The Chestnut-eared Aracari is found in the tropical rainforests of Central America, including parts of southern Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, Honduras, and Nicaragua. It inhabits lowland forests and edges, often seen in the canopy and sub-canopy layers of these lush environments.
Behaviours & Reproduction
These aracaris are social and often found in small flocks. They are known for their playful behavior and their distinctive, varied calls. During the breeding season, they nest in tree cavities, with both parents taking part in incubating the eggs and feeding the chicks.
Diet
Primarily fruits, including figs and berries; also eats insects and small vertebrates
Colors
Black body, blue around de eyes area, yellow chest band, red vent, colorful bill.
Fun Facts
The Chestnut-eared Aracari has a large, colorful bill that helps it reach and grasp fruit, and it can also use it for digging out insects from tree bark.
These birds are highly social and are often seen in mixed-species flocks with other fruit-eating birds.
They have a distinctive, high-pitched call that can carry through dense forest.
The large bill of the aracari is not just for feeding but also plays a role in regulating body temperature.
They are excellent climbers and use their strong, curved bills to help them navigate the tree branches.
The Chestnut-eared Aracari’s vivid coloration helps them blend into the colorful, diverse canopy of their rainforest habitat.
Conservation Status & Efforts
The Chestnut-eared Aracari is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List. Despite this, it faces threats from habitat loss due to deforestation and habitat fragmentation. Conservation efforts focus on protecting rainforest habitats and promoting sustainable land use practices to ensure the long-term survival of these vibrant birds.
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