The western striolated puffbird is a species of bird in the family Bucconidae, the puffbirds, nunlets, and nunbirds. It is found in Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.
Region
Western Amazon Basin
Typical Environment
Occurs in lowland and foothill forests of western Amazonia in Bolivia, Brazil (western Amazon states), Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. It favors forest edges, riverine and seasonally flooded várzea, secondary growth, and light gaps within terra firme forest. Birds typically perch quietly in the midstory or along forest margins, especially near clearings and along waterways. It tolerates moderately disturbed habitats but is less common deep in dense interior forest.
Altitude Range
0–1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The western striolated puffbird is a sit-and-wait predator that often remains motionless for long periods before sallying out to snatch prey. It was described as a distinct species in 2013 and named in honor of Barack Obama. Pairs frequently duet at dawn, and their clear whistled notes carry far through the forest. Like many puffbirds, it may nest in burrows excavated in earthen banks or in arboreal termitaria.
Amazonia Lodge - Peru
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between perches
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in pairs that maintain territories year-round. Pairs engage in antiphonal duets and coordinate foraging from nearby perches. Nesting is believed to occur in burrows excavated in earthen banks or in arboreal termitaria; both sexes likely participate in excavation and incubation.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of clear, whistled notes delivered at measured pace, often descending slightly in pitch. Pairs may duet with alternating phrases at dawn and dusk, carrying well through the forest edge and river corridors.
