The black-eared barbet is a barbet in the family Megalaimidae native to Peninsular Malaysia, Sumatra and Borneo. It inhabits shrubland and forest up to an altitude of 1,200 m (3,900 ft). Because of its large range it is listed as least concern on the IUCN Red List.
Region
Sundaland (Peninsular Malaysia, Sumatra, and Borneo)
Typical Environment
Occurs in lowland and hill evergreen forests, forest edges, and secondary growth, frequently visiting fruiting trees in clearings and along rivers. It adapts well to disturbed habitats, including orchards, village gardens, and tree-lined plantations, provided mature fruiting trees are present. The species forages mainly in the mid- to upper canopy but will descend to lower levels where food is abundant. It commonly associates with fig trees and other fruiting species that bear small berries. Nesting typically takes place in soft or decaying trunks and larger branches within these habitats.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The black-eared barbet is a small, canopy-loving barbet that spends much of its time in fruiting trees, especially figs. Both sexes excavate nest cavities in soft or decaying wood, and they readily use secondary growth near villages and gardens. Its repetitive, ringing calls can carry far through the forest and are often heard before the bird is seen. It plays an important role in seed dispersal in Sundaic forests.
Temperament
quietly active and somewhat secretive in the canopy
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with direct, undulating flights between trees
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, occasionally joining mixed-species foraging parties around fruiting trees. Pairs maintain small territories and both sexes excavate and attend the nest cavity in soft wood. Clutch care is shared, with adults carrying fruit and insects to nestlings.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives a rhythmic, ringing series of hollow notes that can continue for long periods, often at dawn. Calls are repetitive and carry well through dense foliage, aiding contact between mates.
