Pied Puffbird
NamePied Puffbird
Common NamePied Puffbird
Scientific NameNotharchus tectus
FamilyBucconidae
Wingspan (cm)25
Length (cm)15
Weight (g)22
Plumage DetailsDistinctive black and white plumage. It has a black crown and nape, often speckled with white, a broad white collar extending around the hindneck, and a prominent black breast band. The underparts are white, and the back and wings are black with a noticeable white patch on the scapulars.
Vocalization / CallIts call is typically a high-pitched, thin whistle, often described as a 'tseee' or 'tseep' sound, sometimes repeated.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in Central and South America, from Costa Rica south through Panama, Colombia, Venezuela, the Guianas, and Amazonian Brazil, Ecuador, and Peru.
Identifying Featuresblack and white plumage, black crown with white speckles, broad white collar, black breast band, white scapular patch, stout, dark bill, fluffy appearance
Description
The Pied Puffbird is a small, striking black and white bird known for its fluffy appearance and habit of perching motionless for long periods. It is an insectivore that typically sallies out from a perch to catch flying insects in tropical forests.
