The white-faced nunbird is a species of near passerine bird in the family Bucconidae, the puffbirds, nunlets, and nunbirds. It is found in Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.
Region
Northern Andes (eastern slopes of Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru)
Typical Environment
Inhabits humid foothill and lower montane forests, especially along the eastern slopes of the Andes. Prefers mature forest with a well-developed midstory but also uses edges, light gaps, and older secondary growth. Often found near steep ravines, stream corridors, and earthen banks where it may nest. Typically perches quietly in shaded mid-canopy layers and makes short foraging sallies.
Altitude Range
400–1600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The white-faced nunbird is a shy puffbird of humid Andean foothill forests, where it often perches quietly in the midstory. It frequently sallies from a favored perch to snatch large insects and occasionally follows army ant swarms to catch fleeing prey. Unlike many passerines, puffbirds typically nest in burrows they excavate in earthen banks.
Temperament
quiet and unobtrusive, often in pairs
Flight Pattern
short rapid flights between perches
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups holding territories. Perches motionless for extended periods before sallying for prey. Nests are typically burrows excavated in earthen banks or steep slopes, where both sexes may participate in excavation and care. Courtship includes quiet vocal exchanges and mutual perch displays.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives a series of clear, whistled notes, often descending and slightly mournful in tone. Calls include soft piping and whistle-like contact notes that carry through the forest understory, especially at dawn.
