Purus Jacamar

Overview

The Purus jacamar (Galbalcyrhynchus purusianus) is a species of bird in the family Galbulidae, native to the upper Amazon Basin. It is a monotypic species found in eastern Peru, western Brazil, and northern Bolivia, and is currently assessed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification

• Stouter than most jacamars with a more robust bill, measuring 20 cm long and weighing 50 g.
• Plumage is almost entirely chestnut, distinguished by a dark bronzy forehead, crown, wings, and tail.
• Song consists of a rising trill, accompanied by calls described as loud 'peeeur' whistles and a sharp 'pee'.
• Juveniles are paler in color and possess shorter bills than adults.

Habitat

Found in the upper Amazon Basin of eastern Peru, western Brazil, and northern Bolivia, the species inhabits both primary and secondary terra firme and várzea forest. It shows a preference for edges such as those along waterways and oxbow lakes in this humid region.

Diet

The Purus jacamar preys on insects, with a particular preference for Hymenoptera (bees and wasps) and Isoptera (termites). It forages by perching at mid- to upper canopy heights, either singly or in small groups, and sallies out to capture its prey.

Did you know?

This species is apparently a cooperative breeder, with groups of up to six individuals observed singing together and excavating nesting cavities in high termite nests.