The semicollared puffbird is a species of near-passerine bird in the family Bucconidae, the puffbirds, nunlets, and nunbirds. It is one of seven species of the genus Malacoptila. It is found in Bolivia, Brazil, and Peru.
Region
Western Amazon Basin
Typical Environment
Occurs in lowland rainforests of Bolivia, western Brazil, and southeastern Peru. Inhabits terra firme and seasonally flooded várzea forests, as well as forest edges and secondary growth. Favors dense understory and midstory strata where it uses shaded perches 1–8 m above the ground. Often associated with bamboo thickets and riverine forest, and can persist in lightly disturbed habitats. Most common in intact forest mosaics with nearby clearings or gaps for foraging.
Altitude Range
100–900 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A sit-and-wait hunter of the Amazonian understory, the semicollared puffbird often perches motionless for long periods before darting out to seize prey. Its name refers to the partial pale collar across the upper breast. Quiet and easily overlooked, it is more often detected by its mellow whistled song at dawn and dusk.
Temperament
solitary and sedentary
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief sallies between perches
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in pairs, maintaining small foraging territories in the understory. Nesting is in burrows excavated in earthen banks or steep slopes, with both members of the pair participating. Likely monogamous with cooperative incubation and care of young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft, mellow series of clear whistles, often given in evenly spaced notes that may rise or fall slightly. Vocal activity peaks at dawn and dusk, carrying through the understory despite low volume.
