Andean Motmot

Overview

The Andean motmot, also known as the highland motmot, is a colorful near-passerine bird native to the Andean region of South America. It is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification

• A large bird measuring 46 to 48 cm in length with a stout black bill and a long tail featuring a dark blue 'racquet' tip.
• Green plumage on the back, wings, throat, breast, and belly, contrasted by a black crown bordered with a blue 'diadem' and a black mask edged in blue.
• A distinct black spot or streak in the center of the breast.
• Song described as a 'monotone boop-oop'.

Habitat

Resident in the Andes from Colombia through Ecuador and Peru to northwestern Bolivia, primarily inhabiting humid montane forest, often near streams, as well as forest edges and secondary forest. Elevation ranges vary by country, typically between 1,000 and 3,100 m.

Diet

An omnivorous species that primarily feeds on arthropods but also consumes fruit. It has been documented taking a small marsupial of the genus Micoureus.

Did you know?

While its breeding biology is not fully described, the species is assumed to nest in a long burrow in an earth bank, similar to other motmots.