White-throated Jacamar

Overview

The white-throated jacamar (Brachygalba albogularis) is a species of bird in the family Galbulidae found in the upper Amazon Basin. It is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, though it is likely sensitive to the destruction of its specific riverine habitat.

Identification

• Size of 15 to 16 cm with a dark brown to black upper body featuring a greenish blue gloss.
• Males possess a distinct white face and throat, while the belly is dark with a central chestnut patch that may be larger in females.
• Song consists of a high, thin series of whistles described as 'pee-pipi-peeee tewee tewee tewee', accompanied by a plaintive upslurred call of 'psueet' or 'kuweei'.

Habitat

Found in a small area where eastern Peru, western Brazil, and northern Bolivia abut, this species inhabits the edges of primary várzea forest or young growth along whitewater rivers. It occupies mid-level to canopy zones in environments such as river islands, Gynerium cane, and bamboo stands up to 600 m elevation.

Diet

The diet is poorly known but includes Hymenoptera and Lepidoptera. The bird forages by perching in small groups on exposed branches in the canopy and sallies out to catch flying prey.

Did you know?

Breeding studies in Peru's Manu National Park revealed that nests are constructed as partially hidden burrows in vertical stream banks, with up to four adults participating in provisioning the young.