Lesson's Motmot

Overview

The Lesson's motmot, or blue-diademed motmot (Momotus lessonii), is a colourful near-passerine bird found in the forests and woodlands of southern Mexico to western Panama. It is currently assessed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification

• Central crown is black, surrounded by a blue band.
• Distinctive black eyemask.
• Call resembles a low, owl-like ooo-doot.
• Often sits still in dense forest, making it difficult to spot despite its size.

Habitat

This species inhabits forests and woodlands ranging from southern Mexico to western Panama. Subspecies populations are found in southwestern Mexico to northern Guatemala, Campeche and Yucatán, and Chiapas to western Panama.

Diet

They consume small prey such as insects and lizards, as well as regularly taking fruit.

Did you know?

Like most members of the order Coraciiformes, they nest in tunnels dug into banks, typically laying about three or four white eggs.