Toco Toucan
Image: Roberto De Oliveira Silva (cc-by-nc)
NameToco Toucan
Common NameToco Toucan
Scientific NameRamphastos toco
FamilyRamphastidae
Wingspan (cm)105
Length (cm)60
Weight (g)680
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is predominantly glossy black, with a bright white throat and chest. A distinctive red patch is visible on the undertail coverts. The most prominent feature is the enormous bill, which is primarily orange-yellow with a red-orange base and a large black spot at the tip. It has a striking blue ring around its eye, surrounded by bare orange facial skin.
Vocalization / CallToco Toucans produce a deep, frog-like croaking or grunting call, often described as 'grrrk' or 'rrraak', which can be repeated. They also make clacking sounds with their bills.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatstropical and subtropical lowlands, savannas, woodlands, forest edges, open forests
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in central and eastern South America, including parts of Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay, northern Argentina, and French Guiana.
Identifying Featuresenormous orange-yellow bill with red base and black tip, black body with white throat and chest, red undertail coverts, blue eye ring with orange facial skin
Description
The Toco Toucan is the largest and most recognizable toucan species, distinguished by its strikingly large, colorful bill. It features a predominantly black body with a contrasting white throat and a vibrant orange-red bill, often observed foraging for fruit in tropical and subtropical lowlands. These social birds typically move in small flocks through the canopy.
