Green Aracari – Pteroglossus viridis

Habitat: These birds are native to the humid lowland rainforests of northeastern South America, including the Amazon Basin, the Guianas, and parts of Venezuela and Brazil. They spend most of their lives high in the forest canopy.

Adaptations: As the smallest members of the toucan family, Green Aracaris have lightweight bills which provide incredible reach without adding much weight. The edges of their bills are serrated, which helps them saw through tough fruit skins. Unlike many other toucans, they show “sexual dimorphism,” meaning you can tell them apart by sight: males have black crowns and necks, while females sport a rich reddish-brown.

Diet: Green Aracaris are primarily frugivores (fruit eaters), though they are opportunistic and will occasionally consume protein during their reproductive cycles. Under human care, this species eats predominantly fruit, with a specialized pellet made for ramphastids (members of the toucan family), and some protein during their reproductive season.

Fun Fact: In the wild, this species will sometimes utilize abandoned woodpecker nests, as they prefer cavities to lay their eggs.