Black-breasted Puffbird
NameBlack-breasted Puffbird
Common NameBlack-breasted Puffbird
Scientific NameNotharchus pectoralis
FamilyBucconidae
Wingspan (cm)32
Length (cm)24
Weight (g)70
Plumage DetailsFeatures a black crown, back, wings, and a prominent black breast band. The throat is white, extending into a broad white collar around the neck. The belly is white, sometimes with some streaking on the flanks. The bill is dark and stout.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of soft, mournful whistles, often described as a repeated 'pee-pee-pee-pee' or 'whee-whee-whee'.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in Central and South America, ranging from eastern Honduras south through Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panama, into western Colombia and northwestern Ecuador.
Identifying FeaturesBold black and white plumage, Broad white collar, Black breast band, Stout, dark bill, Sedentary perching behavior
Description
This striking puffbird is characterized by its bold black and white plumage. It is typically found perching motionless for extended periods in the mid-story of humid forests, waiting to ambush passing insects. Its sedentary hunting style is characteristic of puffbirds.
