crimson rumped toucanet

Description:

The Crimson-rumped Toucanet (Aulacorhynchus haematopygus) is quite common on the western slopes of the Ecuadorian Andes ranging from the Columbian border south to western Loja. It generally resides between 500m and 2,000m (1,600 ft. and 6,600 ft.) although it has been known to visit some lower areas. There were reports years ago of spotting the Crimson-rumped Toucanet on the eastern slopes but there have not been any sightings in recent years. This compact toucan is 34.5 – 35.5 cm in length (13 ½ - 14 in.) and has a bill of 6.5 – 7.5 cm (2 ½ - 3 in.). The beak is a dark red in color mottled with black. Red eyes peer out from a predominantly green body. A bluish tint can be seen below the eyes and across the breast in the attached photo but this is generally not noticeable in the field. There is a narrow band of red across the rump that may not be seen when the bird is at rest. The tail feathers have a chestnut colored tip. Although toucans can be rather shy, there are areas that you can visit where you can approach these birds for a closer look. The attached photo was taken at Paz de las Aves, a private reserve north of the town of Mindo. Angel Paz has erected some hides and feeders in the canopy of the forest to attract the Crimson-rumped Toucanet as well as other exotic species. Other areas where this tropical jewel can be observed are Bellavista Forest Reserve, Buenaventura Reserve, Milpe Bird Sanctuary, Mindo Valley, Rio Canande Reserve, Rio Palenque Reserve, Rio Silanche Bird Sanctuary, Tinalandia and Tandayapa Valley.