Toco toucans are found in the tropical rainforests of Argentina, Peru, French Guiana, Bolivia, Paraguay, Suriname and Brazil. They are the largest species in the toucan family with the largest beak, which makes up one third of their body length.
The life of a toco toucan
Toco toucans can grow up to two feet tall with a wingspan of two feet. They weigh up to 1.5 pounds and live up to 20 years. Toco toucans breed in the spring, using holes trees to build their nests. After mating, females lay two to four eggs. Both parents take turns sitting on the eggs until they hatch after 15 to 18 days.
Toco toucans live in flocks of about six birds. They are very loud when communicating, with calls that can be heard a half mile away! They have several distinct calls including a deep croak, a rattling call and a bill clacking sound.
Toco toucans are omnivores that eat fruits, insects and reptiles, as well as smaller birds and their eggs. Their long bills help them forage for fruit by reaching deep into tree holes or grasping fruits hanging from branches. When sleeping, they flip their tailfeathers over their head to conceal and protect their beak.
Their colorful appearance helps them blend in with the rainforest and avoid predators, but their loud calls usually make their presence known. Their predators include jaguars, snakes and eagles.
Toco toucans at the zoo
A toco toucan is an ambassador animal at the zoo. He helps educate guests about his species during special presentations.
