Bird · GBIF taxon 2478771
Keel-billed Toucan
Ramphastos sulfuratusAlso known as Rainbow-billed Toucan, Sulphur-breasted Toucan
Keel-billed toucans navigate the tropical canopy in small, playful flocks, often engaging in bill-fencing duels that help establish social hierarchy. Their massive, hollow bills are surprisingly lightweight and serve as highly efficient thermal radiators to regulate body temperature in the humid heat. At night, these social birds roost together in tight tree cavities, tucking their tails over their backs and folding their bills underneath to conserve space.
VibrantCanopy-dwellingSocial
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Near ThreatenedConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXNear ThreatenedRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Ficus fruits
- Cicadas
- Anole lizards
Predators
- Harpy Eagle
- Ocelot
- Large snakes
ThreatsHabitat loss, deforestation, and the illegal pet trade
HabitatsTropical rainforests, premontane forests, and forest edges
Life span15 to 20 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyRamphastidae
- SpeciesRamphastos sulfuratus
Native
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Capable of delivering a powerful pinch with its serrated bill if cornered or handled.
Responsible observation
- Listen for calls: Listen for their low, frog-like croaking calls to locate them high in the canopy.
- Look for movement: Watch for heavy, undulating flight patterns as they glide between fruiting trees.
- Keep your distance: Use binoculars or a spotting scope to observe nesting hollows without causing stress.
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