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Overview
Bluish-fronted jacamar

Bluish-fronted jacamar

Wikipedia

The bluish-fronted jacamar is a species of bird in the family Galbulidae. It is found in Bolivia, Brazil, and Peru.

Distribution

Region

Western Amazon Basin

Typical Environment

Most common in humid lowland rainforest mosaics, especially along forest edges, light gaps, and river margins. It frequents terra firme and seasonally flooded (várzea) forests as well as secondary growth and clearings with scattered trees. Birds typically perch in the subcanopy or along sunny forest edges and stream corridors. It is often seen near oxbow lakes, river islands, and along sandy banks where it may also nest.

Altitude Range

0–900 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size18–20 cm
Wing Span24–28 cm
Male Weight0.028 kg
Female Weight0.026 kg
Life Expectancy6 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

The bluish-fronted jacamar is a perch-and-sally insect hunter that specializes in catching flying insects like dragonflies and butterflies. Pairs often duet with clear, whistled notes and nest by excavating burrows in sandy riverbanks or earthen banks. Its glossy plumage shows a bluish sheen on the forehead that helps distinguish it from similar jacamars. It occurs in the southwestern Amazon of Bolivia, Brazil, and Peru.

Gallery

Bird photo
Bird photo
Bird photo

Behaviour

Temperament

usually in pairs and territorial

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats with quick sallies from perches

Social Behavior

Typically found singly, in pairs, or small family groups along edges and waterways. Pairs are strongly site-faithful and maintain territories. They excavate tunnel nests in sandy or earthen banks, with both sexes participating in digging and incubation.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Gives clear, whistled notes and short, sweet trills, often delivered in duets. Calls carry well along river corridors and forest edges and may accelerate into a brief series when excited.

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