The red-crowned barbet is part of one of the two subfamilies of Megalaimidae birds. it is in the order of woodpeckers (Piciformes) and their relatives. It is distributed in Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and Brunei. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests and plantations with a distribution area of 3,180,000 km2 (1,230,000 sq mi).
Region
Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs from southern Myanmar and Thailand through Peninsular Malaysia and Singapore to Sumatra and Borneo (including Brunei and parts of Indonesia and Malaysia). Prefers primary and well-structured secondary lowland evergreen forests, often in dipterocarp habitats. Also uses forest edges, fruit orchards, and tree-rich plantations where large fruiting trees remain. Typically forages in the mid-story to canopy and requires suitable trees for cavity nesting. Habitat loss and fragmentation affect local occurrences, but it persists in some modified landscapes with mature trees.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This vivid green barbet excavates its own nest cavities in dead or decaying wood, much like its piciform relatives. It is a key seed disperser for many rainforest trees, especially figs. Despite its bright red crown and blue face, it can be surprisingly hard to spot as it forages high in the canopy. The species epithet honors Sir Stamford Raffles.
The Red Crowned Barbet feeding on fruits
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short undulating flights between trees
Social Behavior
Usually seen alone or in pairs, sometimes joining mixed-species flocks at fruiting trees. Pairs excavate nest cavities in soft or dead wood and share incubation and chick-rearing duties. Territories are defended with loud, repetitive calls and visual displays near nest sites.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Typical barbet call: a loud, hollow, and monotonous series of tuk or kok notes repeated at steady intervals. Calls carry far through the forest and are often the first clue to its presence.
