Rufous Motmot
NameRufous Motmot
Common NameRufous Motmot
Scientific NameBaryphthengus martii
FamilyMomotidae
Wingspan (cm)32.5
Length (cm)45
Weight (g)165
Plumage DetailsBright rufous head, neck, and underparts; a prominent black mask extends from the bill through the eye; the back and wings are vibrant green, with blue flight feathers visible. The long, graduated tail is blue-green, often lacking the distinctive 'rackets' found in other motmot species.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its deep, resonant hooting call, often described as a slow, repeated 'hoot-hoot' or 'whoop-whoop'.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in Central and South America, ranging from Honduras south through Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia, and into western Brazil.
Identifying FeaturesLarge size, Bright rufous head and underparts, Prominent black eye mask, Vibrant green back, Long, blue-green tail (often without rackets), Heavy, slightly decurved black bill
Description
A large and colorful motmot, this species is characterized by its vibrant rufous head and underparts, contrasting with a green back. It typically perches quietly in the forest understory, often flicking its long, blue-green tail.
