The flame-fronted barbet is an Asian barbet native to Java and Bali. It has a green plumage, a yellow-orange forehead, a blue nape, and an orange crescent on the chest. It is about 19.5–23 cm (7.7–9.1 in) long and weighs 61–79 g (2.2–2.8 oz). Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest and subtropical or tropical moist montane forest.
Region
Java and Bali, Indonesia
Typical Environment
Found in tropical moist lowland and montane forests, including forest edges, secondary growth, and tree-rich gardens. It favors areas with large fruiting trees, especially figs, and often forages in the mid to upper canopy. The species tolerates some habitat disturbance but relies on mature trees for nesting. It is generally resident across suitable habitats on both islands.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This barbet is endemic to Java and Bali and is often detected by its loud, repetitive barbetting call long before it is seen. Using its stout bill, it excavates nest cavities in rotten wood and helps disperse seeds of figs and other fruiting trees. It was formerly placed in the genus Megalaima.
Temperament
generally shy in dense canopy but can be conspicuous at fruiting trees
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups, especially at fruiting trees. Both sexes excavate nest cavities in decayed wood and share incubation and chick-rearing. Territorial calling is common during the breeding season.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A loud, repetitive barbetting series of notes, often delivered for long periods from a concealed perch. The call carries far through forest and edges, making the species easier to hear than to see.
Plumage
Largely green body with a yellow-orange forehead, blue nape, and a distinctive orange crescent across the upper chest.
Diet
Primarily consumes fruits such as figs, berries, and drupes, supplemented with insects and other small arthropods. It swallows small fruits whole and helps disperse seeds. Occasionally gleans insects from foliage or bark, especially when feeding young.
Preferred Environment
Feeds mainly in the mid to upper canopy at fruiting trees, often visiting the same trees repeatedly. Also forages along forest edges and in secondary woodland or large gardens with mature trees.
