image courtesy: APA
Common name: Toco Toucan
Scientific name: Ramphastos toco
Length: 25 inches
The Toco Toucan can be found in rainforests from the Guianas to Brazil and is the most widely distributed of all toucans. The
Toco is also the largest of all toucans and can measure over 2 feet in length and weigh 700 grams. Its beak alone is 10 inches
in length which contains a long skinny tongue covered with hair-like filaments. The Toco Toucan uses its large bill to pick small
fruits and berries from bushes and trees. It also feeds on insects and young birds.
The Toco Toucan is a gregarious bird and lives in the rainforest canopy in groups of 6 to 12. Their nests are usually made in
holes of decaying tree trunks and are then lined with fresh leaves. The female then lays 2 to 4 white eggs and both parents take
turns sitting on the nest. At birth, the hatchlings are blind and featherless. The young bird leaves the nest after 6 to 7 weeks.
These beautiful birds are often kept as pets and are easily domesticated. Toco Toucans are listed in C.I.T.E.S. under Appendix
II but are not endangered.