The black-fronted nunbird is a species of near-passerine bird in the family Bucconidae, the puffbirds, nunlets, and nunbirds. It is found in Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.
Region
Amazon Basin
Typical Environment
Occurs widely in lowland Amazonia of Brazil, Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru, especially along major and minor rivers. Prefers riverine habitats including várzea and igapó forests, oxbow lakes, and gallery forests, and commonly uses secondary growth near water. It favors forest edges, clearings, and open understory near waterways rather than dense interior terra firme. Frequently perches on exposed branches a few meters above ground to hunt.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 900 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A member of the puffbird family (Bucconidae), the black-fronted nunbird typically perches quietly along Amazonian river edges before sallying out to snatch large insects. It often occurs in pairs or family groups and may accompany ant swarms or follow mixed-species flocks to catch flushed prey. Its bright orange-red bill contrasts with its sooty-black plumage, making it easy to spot along waterways. It nests in burrows excavated in earthen banks.
Temperament
quiet and watchful, territorial in pairs or small family groups
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between perches with quick sallies to capture prey
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or small family groups that maintain linear territories along waterways. Nests are typically burrows dug into earthen banks; both parents share incubation and chick rearing. Occasionally accompanies mixed-species flocks or ant swarms to exploit flushed insects.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives a series of loud, whistled notes that carry far along rivers, often delivered in duets. Calls include sharp piping and descending whistles used for contact and territory advertisement.
