The fire-tufted barbet is a species of bird in the Asian barbet family Megalaimidae. It is native to Peninsular Malaysia and Sumatra, where it inhabits tropical moist lowland and montane forests. It has been listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List since 2004. Its scientific name was proposed by Salomon Müller in 1836, who described a barbet from Sumatra.
Region
Southeast Asia (Sundaland)
Typical Environment
Occurs in Peninsular Malaysia and Sumatra, inhabiting tropical moist lowland and montane forests. It favors primary forest but also uses mature secondary growth, forest edges, and areas with abundant fruiting trees. Most activity is in the mid- to upper canopy, where it forages methodically among branches. It may visit fruiting trees in clearings and along ridgelines, and occasionally ventures into forest-adjacent gardens.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This striking barbet is named for the bright orange-red facial tufts that flare like little flames beside its beak. Its loud, cat-like mewing call carries far through the forest canopy and is often the easiest way to locate it. It feeds heavily on figs and other forest fruits, helping disperse seeds across its habitat, but will also take insects. Pairs nest in cavities they excavate in dead or soft wood.
Adult fire-tufted barbet in Genting Highlands, Malaysia
Temperament
secretive yet vocal
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between trees
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups, often attending fruiting trees. Pairs excavate nest cavities in dead or decaying wood and share incubation and chick-rearing duties. Territorial around rich fruit sources, they may chase off other frugivores.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A loud, repeated, cat-like mew that carries through the forest, sometimes alternating with a buzzy, insect-like note. Calls are given persistently from concealed perches high in the canopy.
