The brown-headed barbet is an Asian barbet species native to the Indian subcontinent, where it inhabits tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests.
Region
Indian Subcontinent
Typical Environment
Found widely across the Indian subcontinent in tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests, wooded farmlands, and plantations. It adapts well to human-modified landscapes, including city parks, large gardens, and avenues with mature fruiting trees. Most active in the mid- to upper canopy, it often gathers at fruiting figs. It nests in tree cavities within well-wooded areas and along forest edges. It avoids treeless open country.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This barbet is a loud, persistent caller, often delivering long series of resonant notes from the canopy. It excavates its own nesting cavity in dead or decaying wood using its stout bill. A key seed-disperser, it frequents fruiting figs and garden trees, helping regenerate urban and rural greenery. Males and females look very similar, making sexing by plumage difficult.
Brown-headed barbet in Chandigarh
eating palm fruit
Temperament
generally shy but tolerant near fruiting trees
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between trees
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups, especially around fruiting trees. Monogamous pairs excavate nest cavities in soft or decayed wood; both sexes share incubation and chick-rearing. Roosting can occur in cavities year-round. Territorial calling is common during the breeding season.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A loud, repetitive series of resonant 'kutroo-kutroo' or 'poop-poop' notes, often delivered for minutes from a high perch. Calls carry far and may be given in duet. Soft churring and tapping sounds occur near the nest.
