Keel-billed Motmot
NameKeel-billed Motmot
Common NameKeel-billed Motmot
Scientific NameElectron carinatum
FamilyMomotidae
Wingspan (cm)32.5
Length (cm)32.5
Weight (g)65
Plumage DetailsThis motmot has a predominantly green body, with a rufous-chestnut breast and belly. Its head features a bright turquoise crown, a black mask extending through the eye, and a small black spot on the chest. The long tail is green, with the central feathers having bare shafts ending in distinctive racket-like tips.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include deep, hooting calls, often described as a repeated 'hoot-hoot' or 'coo-coo' sound.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeFound in Central America, ranging from southeastern Mexico through Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica.
Identifying FeaturesRacket-tipped central tail feathers, Bright turquoise crown, Black mask through the eye, Rufous-chestnut breast, Stout, slightly decurved black bill
Description
The Keel-billed Motmot is a medium-sized, brightly colored bird found in humid tropical forests. It typically perches quietly in the understory, scanning for insects and small vertebrates, and is known for its distinctive racket-tipped tail feathers.
