Orange-fronted Barbet

Overview

The orange-fronted barbet (Capito squamatus) is a species of bird in the family Capitonidae, found in Ecuador and Colombia. It is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, with an estimated population of 37,000 to 63,000 individuals.

Identification

• Males display a white crown and orange-to-red forecrown, with black heads, upperparts, and vent areas, and yellowish-white underparts that may carry an orange tinge.
• Females have a yellow-orange front with black heads, throats, and chests, and fine white markings on the wing-coverts.
• Measuring 16 to 18 cm in length, it produces a low-pitched, fast, soft purring trill and a noisy 'tyik' call.

Habitat

Found from El Oro Province in southwestern Ecuador north to Nariño Department in southwestern Colombia, it inhabits wet lowlands and hill country. It utilizes primary and secondary forests, forest edges, and open areas such as farms, orchards, and pastures, typically ranging from sea level to 800 m but occasionally up to 1,500 m.

Diet

This bird primarily consumes fruits and berries, supplemented by insects and spiders. It forages in pairs across all levels of vegetation and frequently joins mixed-species foraging flocks.

Did you know?

The orange-fronted barbet excavates nest holes in trees, typically placing the cavity several metres above the ground during its July to September nesting season.