The green-eared barbet is an Asian barbet.
Region
Mainland Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs widely in Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam, with populations in lowland and foothill evergreen and semi-evergreen forests. It is frequently found along forest edges, secondary growth, and in fruit orchards and gardens near woodland. The species favors tall fruiting trees, especially figs, and will also use bamboo stands and riverine corridors. It can persist in moderately degraded habitats provided large fruiting trees remain.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1400 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The green-eared barbet is a medium-sized Asian barbet noted for its bright green ear-coverts and loud, repetitive calls that carry through forest canopies. It spends much of its time high in fruiting trees, especially figs, and excavates nest cavities in soft or dead wood. Both sexes share nesting duties, and the species adapts well to forest edges and orchards. It is currently assessed as Least Concern and is common across much of mainland Southeast Asia.
Green-eared Barbet
A green-eared barbet in Khao Yai National Park
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with undulating flight between trees
Social Behavior
Usually seen alone or in pairs, perching high in the canopy while feeding or calling. Pairs excavate nest cavities in dead or soft wood and both sexes incubate and feed the young. Territorial calling bouts are common in the breeding season, with birds advertising from prominent perches.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A loud, rhythmic series of hollow notes, often rendered as repetitive ‘tuk-tuk’ phrases delivered for long periods. Calls are resonant and carry far through the forest canopy, often given at dawn and in the heat of the day.
Plumage
Predominantly green body with a brownish, finely streaked head and throat. Distinct bright green ear-coverts contrast with the streaked face and whitish-streaked throat. Underparts are green with paler streaking on the breast; wings and tail are deep green. Bill is heavy and pale horn-colored.
Diet
Primarily consumes fruits, especially figs (Ficus), as well as berries and cultivated fruits like guava and lychee. It supplements its diet with insects such as beetles, ants, and caterpillars, gleaned from foliage and bark. Occasionally takes flower buds and seeds. Foraging is methodical, often pausing to swallow large fruits whole.
Preferred Environment
Feeds high in the canopy of mature forests, along forest edges, and in secondary growth with fruiting trees. Readily visits orchards and large fruiting trees in villages and gardens adjacent to forest.
