Spotting the Elusive Collared Aracari Toucanet in the Jungles of Belize

Scientific name: Pteroglossus torquatus

Often found in rainforests, these birds travel through Southern Mexico and Central America on a yearly basis. These creatures are closely related to toucans but are considered to be toucanets because of the differences found in their tails—which have sharper and pointier ends than toucans.

Collared Aracaris are very much similar to Fiery-Bill Toucans because of their composition and colour. However, distinctions are seen in how these colours are presented throughout their bodies. Take a look at the picture below

The Collared Aracari has a band across its belly that is mostly black with a red shade underneath it. On the other hand, Fiery-Bill Toucans have a red band with slight black shading on the upper part. Also, the black circle on the chest is more prominent on the Fiery-Bill Aracari. If you look at the bills of both these creatures, you can easily see that the Collared Aracari’s is much darker than that of the Fiery-Bill’s, which is more vibrant.

Collared Aracaris are said to have a sinister appearance but they are far from evil! These birds are sweet and friendly; although they sometimes eat fledging birds, insects, and small reptiles, their diet consists mostly of fruits.

Aracaris are social and they are found in small flocks. They live in a family structure and both parents take turns incubating the eggs and feeding the young ones…now, that’s team work! The feeding continues even after the younglings have left the nest (approximately after 6 weeks).

Got to admit, these beautiful birds are our Number 1 guests at the San Ignacio Resort Hotel. You can enjoy looking at them from your room, the lobby, the Running W Steakhouse and also, get more interesting facts while you take a birding tour!