Black-billed Mountain Toucan

Overview

The black-billed mountain toucan (Andigena nigrirostris) is a species of bird in the toucan family Ramphastidae. It is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, though its population is believed to be decreasing.

Identification

• Black cap and nape with bronzy upperparts and a pale yellow rump.
• White face and throat transitioning to a pale blue breast, with chestnut thighs and red undertail coverts.
• Pale blue bare skin before the eye and yellow or orange skin behind it.
• Noisy vocalisations described as nasal 'gwaaak' notes that can be drawn out or yelp-like, often accompanied by bill-rattling or clacking.

Habitat

Found in Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela, the species inhabits cloud forest, subtropical to temperate montane forest, and open areas such as croplands near forest. It typically ranges in elevation between 1,700 and 2,700 m, though it has been recorded between 1,200 m and 3,245 m.

Diet

This bird forages in the forest canopy, usually in pairs or small family groups. Its diet consists of various fruits and some insects, although specific details are lacking.

Did you know?

The species makes bill-rattling or clacking sounds that may be combined with its vocalisations. It was originally described in the genus Pteroglossus before being recognised as part of its current classification.