The saffron toucanet is a species of bird in the family Ramphastidae found in the Atlantic Forest in far north-eastern Argentina, south-eastern Brazil, and eastern Paraguay.
Region
Atlantic Forest, eastern South America
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid evergreen and semi-deciduous Atlantic Forest from southeastern Brazil into eastern Paraguay and far northeastern Argentina (Misiones). It favors mature forest but also uses secondary growth, forest edges, and fruit-rich gallery forest. Birds typically forage in the mid-story to canopy, moving between fruiting trees. It is generally non-migratory, with local movements tracking seasonal fruit availability.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The saffron toucanet is a striking yellow aracari of the Atlantic Forest and an important seed disperser for many native trees. It nests in natural cavities or old woodpecker holes high in the canopy. Pairs or small groups are most often detected by their resonant croaks before being seen. Ongoing habitat loss in the Atlantic Forest affects its local abundance.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between trees
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups that move quietly through the canopy. Both parents share nesting duties in tree cavities, and fledglings may join parents at fruiting trees. Territorial displays include bill clacking and vocal duets.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are a series of resonant croaks and gruff notes, often delivered in steady sequences. Calls carry well through dense forest and are the best way to locate the species.
Plumage
Mostly saffron-yellow head and underparts with olive-green mantle and wings; reddish vent and undertail coverts. Plumage is sleek with a slight gloss, contrasting with the pale, heavy bill.
Diet
Primarily eats fleshy fruits from a wide variety of forest trees and palms, swallowing small fruits whole and regurgitating seeds. Also takes insects, small vertebrates, and occasionally eggs or nestlings, especially when fruit is scarce. Its fruit-heavy diet makes it a key seed disperser across forest patches.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the mid-story to canopy at fruiting trees, along forest edges, and in secondary growth with abundant fruit. Frequently joins mixed-species flocks at fruit sources in season.
