The crimson-rumped toucanet is a near-passerine bird in the toucan family Ramphastidae. It is found in Colombia, Ecuador, and Venezuela.
Region
Northern Andes
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid montane and cloud forests from northern Colombia through Ecuador and into western Venezuela. Prefers mature forest but also uses edges, secondary growth, and fruiting trees in agroforestry landscapes. Typically forages in the mid to upper canopy, descending to edges and clearings when fruiting resources are abundant. Often persists in fragmented forest mosaics if large fruiting trees remain.
Altitude Range
800–2600 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This toucanet plays an important role as a seed disperser in Andean cloud forests, thanks to its fruit-heavy diet. Pairs and small groups often engage in social fruit-tossing and mutual preening. They nest in tree cavities, frequently enlarging old woodpecker holes, and both parents share incubation and chick-rearing duties.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with undulating, tree-to-tree flights
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small groups and sometimes joins mixed-species flocks. Nests in tree cavities, often modifying existing holes; both sexes incubate and feed the young. Territorial calling and mutual preening reinforce pair bonds.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are a series of soft, frog-like croaks and grunts, often repeated in steady rhythms. Calls carry through the forest canopy but are less piercing than those of larger toucans.
