Welcome back, birding enthusiasts, to another adventure in the vibrant avian world of Costa Rica! Today, we set our sights on a dazzling resident of the Pacific slopes – the aptly named Fiery-billed Aracari.
This flamboyant toucan is a true showstopper, and if you’re lucky enough to spot one during your stay at our mountain retreat, prepare to be mesmerized by its kaleidoscope of colors.
A Feathery Fiesta
Imagine a bird with a coat as colorful as a fiesta. The Fiery-billed Aracari starts with a sleek black head, neck, and throat, offset by a stunning chestnut collar that drapes around its nape. Its back shimmers with an iridescent blue-green, culminating in a fiery red rump. But the true star of the show is undoubtedly the bill.
Living up to its name, the Fiery-billed Aracari boasts a massive beak that explodes with color. The upper mandible is a fiery red with a contrasting black culmen (ridge) and a bright yellow tip. The base of the bill takes an unexpected turn, showcasing a cool greenish hue. The contrast between these vibrant colors is nothing short of breathtaking.
A Flash of Yellow in the Undergrowth
As this dazzling toucan flits through the trees, keep an eye out for a flash of yellow. The Fiery-billed Aracari’s underparts are a brilliant yellow, further accentuated by a bold red band across its belly. And just when you think you’ve seen it all, a small black spot emerges right in the center of its chest, adding a touch of whimsy to its flamboyant attire.
A Family Affair
The Fiery-billed Aracari is a social bird, often found in small flocks of up to ten individuals. They flit through the forest canopy, their loud and distinct “keeseek” or “pseek” calls echoing through the trees. These vocalizations serve as a way for them to communicate with each other and stay connected within the group.
A Forest Feast
Primarily frugivores, Fiery-billed Aracaris spend their days feasting on a variety of fruits. Their large bills, surprisingly lightweight for their size, are perfectly adapted for reaching and manipulating these tasty treats. But their diet isn’t limited to just fruit. They’ll also readily devour insects, lizards, bird eggs, and other small prey, especially during nesting season.
A Cooperative Clan
Speaking of nesting, Fiery-billed Aracaris are cooperative breeders. This means that both parents, along with helpers from previous broods, participate in raising the young. They lay their eggs in old woodpecker holes high up in the trees, and after hatching, the chicks remain blind and naked for several days before fledging. The cooperative effort ensures a higher chance of chick survival, a vital strategy in the rainforest ecosystem.
Spotting a Fiery Wonder
While Fiery-billed Aracaris are not restricted to the mountain region where our retreat is located, they are most commonly found in the lowland forests and clearings on the Pacific slopes of Costa Rica and western Panama. So, if you’re venturing on hikes or nature walks during your stay, keep your eyes peeled for this dazzling toucan.
With a bit of patience and a keen eye, you might just be rewarded with a glimpse of this fiery wonder flitting through the trees, adding a splash of color to your Costa Rican adventure.
For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica
This post is also available in: Français (French) Español (Spanish)