EPOW - Ecology Picture of the Week

Each week a different image of our fascinating environment is featured, along with a brief explanation written by a professional ecologist.

6-12 April 2015

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Tooting Toucan Barbet

Toucan Barbet (Semnornis ramphastinus), Family Ramphastidae
Mindo, Ecuador

Credit & Copyright:  Dr. Bruce G. Marcot

Explanation:  Enjoy this short video of a calling and singing Toucan Barbet in the mid-elevation Pacific slope jungles of Ecuador.  

Toucan Barbets are not toucans, but are called so because of their elongated bills -- at least long for a barbet.  

This species may be threatened in Columbia, but here in Ecuador its populations seem more secure. 

Its tooting song, as captured in the above video, carries far within the jungle.  Toucan Barbet pairs also may sing these honking notes in duet, each sex on a different pitch.  They also often do bill clacking as displayed in the first part of this video, although it is unclear what the purpose may be, perhaps a territorial warning or contact call.  


A striking bird of the forest undercanopy!
Here is a male; females are slightly duller but still spectacular.

    
  


Next week's picture:  Andean Condors of Patagonia


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