The crimson-fronted barbet, also called Sri Lanka barbet, is an Asian barbet endemic to Sri Lanka where it inhabits tropical moist lowland forests up to 1,300 m (4,300 ft) elevation.
Region
Sri Lanka (South Asia)
Typical Environment
Found primarily in the lowland and foothill wet zone of southwestern Sri Lanka, inhabiting tropical moist evergreen forest, forest edges, and well-wooded gardens. It frequents mid-canopy to canopy levels, often visiting fruiting figs and other native trees. The species also uses secondary growth and plantations where large trees persist. Nesting occurs in cavities it excavates in softwood or dead limbs of mature trees.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1300 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also known as the Sri Lanka barbet, this species is confined to Sri Lanka’s wet-zone forests and adjoining woodlands. It excavates its own nest cavity in soft or dead wood, with both sexes sharing the work. A key seed disperser of native fruiting trees, especially figs, it helps maintain forest regeneration. Though locally affected by forest loss, it tolerates disturbed habitats and gardens with tall fruiting trees.
Temperament
quiet and canopy-dwelling; often shy but vocal
Flight Pattern
short, direct flights with rapid wingbeats between trees
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups. Both sexes excavate nest cavities and share incubation and chick-rearing. Territorial during breeding, with calling used to advertise territory and maintain pair bonds.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A loud, metronomic series of hollow tuk or kut-rok notes repeated for long periods, carrying far through the forest. Also gives softer churring and contact calls when foraging.
Plumage
Primarily bright green with a contrastingly colored head; plumage is smooth and glossy with minimal streaking below.
Diet
Primarily eats a variety of fruits, especially figs (Ficus spp.), berries, and other soft fruits. Supplements its diet with insects such as beetles and caterpillars, particularly during chick-rearing. Forages deliberately among foliage and branches, swallowing small fruits whole and later regurgitating seeds.
Preferred Environment
Feeds mostly in the mid to upper canopy of fruiting trees in forest, edges, and large gardens. Will also use plantations and secondary growth when suitable fruiting trees are present.
