The red-necked aracari or red-necked araçari is a near-passerine bird in the toucan family Ramphastidae. It is found in Bolivia and Brazil.
Region
Southwestern Amazon Basin
Typical Environment
Occurs in lowland humid forests of western and south-central Amazonia, primarily in northern Bolivia and adjacent Brazil (including Acre, Rondônia, Amazonas south of the Amazon, and Mato Grosso). It favors terra firme and seasonally flooded várzea forests, frequenting the mid-canopy to canopy levels. The species also uses forest edges, river corridors, and secondary growth where fruiting trees are abundant. It can persist in moderately fragmented landscapes if large fruiting trees remain, but it is less common in heavily deforested zones.
Altitude Range
0–1000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The red-necked aracari is a small toucan known for its striking red neck band and long, lightweight bill used to deftly pluck fruits. It is an important seed disperser in Amazonian forests, swallowing fruits whole and passing seeds intact. Pairs nest in tree cavities, often reusing old woodpecker holes. Although generally common locally, it is sensitive to extensive forest loss.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief glides between canopy trees
Social Behavior
Usually travels in pairs or small groups, moving along fruiting trees in the canopy. Nests in natural cavities or old woodpecker holes, where both parents share incubation and chick-rearing. Breeding pairs maintain small territories around nest sites but often join loose foraging parties when not nesting.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives sharp, squeaky notes and nasal yelps in repeated series. Calls can accelerate into chattering sequences during group contact or excitement.
